Pea cream soup

Pea cream soup: a warm embrace on gloomy days

On days when the sky is covered with clouds and the wind brings a cold breeze, pea cream soup can instantly transform the atmosphere in your home, bringing the sun to your table. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for a quick and comforting dinner. Let's begin our culinary adventure!

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

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh or frozen peas
- 1 large celery
- 50 g butter
- 100 g sour cream
- 200 g toast bread
- 100 g flour
- 2 eggs (only the yolks)
- salt and white pepper, to taste
- 200 g smoked bacon

Preparing the pea cream soup:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning the celery. Cut it into small cubes so that it cooks evenly. If using frozen peas, make sure to thaw them before adding to the soup. This will add a pleasant texture and vibrant flavor to your dish.

2. Toasting the bread:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Cut the toast bread into cubes and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. You can add a little olive oil or melted butter for extra flavor. Toasting the bread in the oven will turn the croutons into a crispy element that perfectly contrasts with the creamy texture of the soup.

3. Cooking the celery:
In a pot, add the celery cubes and cover them with water. Add a little salt to enhance the flavor. Boil the celery over medium heat until it becomes soft, about 10-15 minutes.

4. Adding the peas:
When the celery is halfway cooked, add the peas and let it simmer on low heat until both the celery and peas are fully cooked, about 10 minutes. Don't forget to set aside a few peas for garnish!

5. Preparing the white sauce:
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it becomes a smooth paste. This is the base of your white sauce.

6. Combining the sauce:
Remove the saucepan from heat and add the broth in which the vegetables boiled, stirring quickly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce cool slightly before adding the sour cream and egg yolks. These ingredients will enrich the flavor and texture of the soup.

7. Blending the vegetables:
Once the vegetables are cooked, drain them and transfer them to a blender. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, then add this mixture to the pot with the white sauce. Mix well to integrate all the ingredients.

8. Seasoning the soup:
Season the pea cream soup with salt and white pepper to taste. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can also add a little lemon juice for a pleasant contrast.

9. Preparing the bacon:
In a separate skillet, sauté the bacon strips over medium heat, without oil, until crispy. This step will add a smoky and delicious flavor to your soup.

10. Serving:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with peas, crispy bacon, and croutons. This combination of textures and flavors will make your meal a true feast.

Practical tips:
- If you want an even creamier soup, you can add more sour cream or use an immersion blender for a finer texture.
- Replace the bacon with fried tofu cubes for a vegetarian option.
- You can add fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an even fresher taste.

Possible variations:
- You can add carrots or potatoes to enrich the flavor and diversify the texture of the soup.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta or parmesan, for an extra flavor boost.

Nutritional benefits:
Peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins A, C, and K. This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned peas?
Yes, but it's important to drain the peas well to avoid excess salt.

2. How can I store the soup for later?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days or frozen for later use, making sure to reheat it slowly to maintain texture.

3. What drinks pair well with pea cream soup?
A dry white wine or green tea can perfectly complement the flavors of the soup. Additionally, a freshly made lemonade would add a pleasant contrast.

This pea cream soup is more than just a recipe; it's an invitation to conversation around the table, a way to share beautiful moments with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to share this delicacy with family and friends, and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500g peas, 1 large celery, 50g butter, 100g sour cream, 200g toast bread, 100g flour, 2 eggs (only the yolks), salt, white pepper, 200g smoked bacon

 Tags:  peas unt sour cream bacon soup