Bean soup with sour cream

Pea soup with cream: a comforting delight for cool days

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Pea soup with cream is one of those recipes that brings a sense of warmth and comfort in every spoonful. This dish has been enjoyed over the years, generating pleasant memories around the table, whether it's a family dinner or a festive meal. With simple yet flavorful ingredients, this soup will make you feel at home, no matter the context.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 small carrots, sliced
- 1 green onion, chopped
- 300 g frozen peas (or fresh, if available)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- Dried thyme (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 250 g cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1.5 liters of water

Preparation techniques:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Wash and chop all the vegetables. Make sure the onion is finely chopped so it can sauté evenly and release its aroma. The carrots can be sliced thinly to cook faster.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This is when its aroma will start to fill the kitchen.

3. Adding the other vegetables: Add the red bell pepper and carrots. Continue cooking the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes until the bell pepper becomes slightly soft.

4. Boiling the soup: Pour the water over the vegetables and add salt, pepper, and thyme. Cover the pot and let it simmer over low heat for 20-25 minutes until the carrots are tender.

5. Adding the peas: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the frozen peas and chopped green onion. Let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

6. Thickening the soup: In a separate bowl, mix the cream with the flour, adding a tablespoon of hot soup to avoid lumps. This step is essential for achieving a velvety texture. Once the cream mixture is smooth, add it to the pot along with the tomato sauce. Mix well and let the soup simmer for another 2 minutes.

7. Serving: Cook the soup until it thickens slightly and the flavors of the ingredients combine perfectly. Finally, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Practical tips:

1. Fresh vegetable version: If you have access to fresh peas, use them for a more intense flavor and texture. Make sure to clean them well before use.

2. Spice combinations: You can experiment with other herbs, such as dill or oregano, to add a personal touch to your soup.

3. Serving options: Pea soup pairs wonderfully with toasted bread croutons or a slice of homemade, freshly baked bread. A bottle of white wine or a glass of mineral water will perfectly complement the meal.

4. Storage: The soup can be kept in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it, but we recommend adding the cream only after thawing to avoid curdling.

Nutritional benefits:

This pea soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Peas are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin K, and the added vegetables contribute to your daily intake of vitamins and minerals. The cream adds a boost of calcium, while the use of olive oil provides healthy fats. It is a balanced recipe that can support a healthy lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can the soup be made vegetarian? Yes, this soup is already vegetarian. However, make sure to use a tomato sauce without animal-derived additives.

- Can I replace the cream? Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or a vegan alternative to achieve a similar taste but with lower fat content.

- What is the secret to a delicious soup? Slow cooking over low heat allows the flavors to develop and combine perfectly. Don’t rush this step!

In conclusion, pea soup with cream is not only a simple and quick dish but also a flavorful and comforting experience. Try it and let yourself be carried away by the memories created around the table, savoring every spoonful. It may quickly become your family's favorite!

 Ingredients: 1 onion 1 red bell pepper 2 small carrots 1 green onion 300 g frozen beans (I had them prepared by mom) thyme, fresh parsley 250 g sour cream 2 tablespoons of flour 1 tablespoon of tomato sauce 1 teaspoon of seasoning, pepper

 Tags:  soup pods sour cream