Pea cream soup (vegan)

Pea cream soup for Lent - a delicious and healthy choice

Who doesn't love a warm soup that brings a touch of comfort on chilly days? Pea cream soup is one of those recipes that combines refined taste with simple preparation, making it perfect for both vegans and those looking to diversify their diet. This Lent pea cream soup recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a serving of health to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 400 g peas (canned or fresh)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for an extra splash of color)
- 1 parsley root
- 1 Knorr vegetable cube
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (approximately 1 liter)

A touch of history:
Pea cream soup is a recipe that has crossed generations, appreciated for its versatility. Its origins are lost in the mists of time when fresh vegetables were used in simple yet nutritious dishes. Today, pea soup is a symbol of comfort and health, and recipes have evolved to meet diverse dietary needs.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the carrot, onion, bell pepper, and parsley root into small cubes. This will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and soften faster.

2. Boiling the vegetables:
In a large pot, add about a liter of water and the Knorr vegetable cube. Place the pot over medium heat and let the water boil. Once the cube has completely dissolved, add the chopped vegetables (carrot, onion, bell pepper, parsley) and let them boil for about 15-20 minutes until tender.

3. Adding the peas:
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to boil for another 5-10 minutes so that the peas soften and release their flavor.

4. Straining and blending:
After all the ingredients are cooked, strain the vegetables, keeping the broth they cooked in. Let the vegetables cool slightly, then transfer them to a blender or food processor. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

5. Finalizing the soup:
If the pea cream is too thick, gradually add the reserved vegetable broth, stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary.

6. Serving:
Serve the pea cream soup warm, drizzled with olive oil on top or with crispy croutons for added texture. You can also add a few sprigs of freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Practical tips:
- If using fresh peas, make sure to cook them well, as they will require more cooking time.
- You can enrich the soup with other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to give it an even more complex flavor.
- If you want a spicier version, add a little chili pepper or spices like cumin or curry.

Nutritional benefits:
Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals. This pea cream soup not only nourishes but also contributes to healthy digestion, being low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen peas?
Yes, frozen peas will perform just as well as fresh ones in this recipe.
- How can I store the soup?
Pea cream soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.
- What can I pair this soup with?
This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh salad or a hummus sandwich.

Serving suggestions and variations:
For a unique touch, you can add a few slices of lemon or a tablespoon of coconut cream (for a vegan version) on top. You can also experiment with various spices or herbs, such as basil or dill, to add a distinct flavor.

I hope this Lent pea cream soup recipe brings you a touch of joy in the kitchen and inspires you to share this delicacy with your loved ones! Cooking is an art and, at the same time, a wonderful way to create memories and bring smiles to the faces of those dear to you. Enjoy your meal!