Pea soup with spätzle
Pea soup with spetzli – a family recipe that combines tradition with exquisite taste. This is a recipe that brings together the simple and natural flavors of the ingredients, perfect for cool days or moments when we crave a comforting meal. Pea soup is not only nourishing but also packed with vitamins, and the spetzli, those small dumplings, add a delicious texture to every bite.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Ingredients for pea soup:
- 500 g fine peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons butter
Ingredients for spetzli:
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Pepper or sweet paprika, to taste
The story behind the recipe:
This pea soup with spetzli is a family recipe that my mother prepares with great love. Every bite reminds us of the meals spent together, of the moments when laughter and stories intertwined with the aroma of steaming soups. Although I strictly follow the steps my mother provides, I have learned that the secret to a truly delicious meal lies in the love you put into the preparation. So, let’s get to work!
Preparing the pea soup:
1. Preparing the onions: Start by finely chopping the onion. In a large pot, add a little butter and sauté the onion over medium heat. The goal is for it to become translucent, not browned. The smell of sautéed onion will fill the kitchen and whet your appetite.
2. Boiling the peas: Once the onion is ready, add enough water to cover the peas. Then, when the water starts to boil, add the peas. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook until the peas start to soften, about 10-15 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Finishing the soup: When the peas are cooked, it’s time to prepare the spetzli.
Preparing the spetzli:
1. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper or sweet paprika. Gradually add the flour, stirring continuously, until you obtain a soft and sticky dough, but not runny. Incorporate the melted butter for extra flavor.
2. Forming the dumplings: When the pea soup is boiling, use a teaspoon to form small dumplings from the dough. To help, you can dip the teaspoon in the soup before taking the dough, which will make the process easier.
3. Boiling the spetzli: Place the dumplings in the boiling soup and let them cook for a few minutes until they all rise to the surface. They will be fluffy and full of flavor.
Finishing and serving:
1. Adding final flavors: Turn off the heat and add the finely chopped dill, along with a tablespoon of butter for a rich taste.
2. Serving: Serve the soup hot, with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt mixed with a little finely chopped mint. This will add a fresh and aromatic note to the dish.
Helpful tips:
- Choosing peas: If using fresh peas, make sure they are in season and well-ripened. Frozen peas are an excellent option as they retain their nutrients and flavor.
- Dill: Dill adds a distinct and fresh flavor. You can also use other herbs, such as parsley or basil, to experiment with different flavors.
- Variations of spetzli: You can add grated cheese to the spetzli dough or the soup for a richer version. You can also replace the eggs with a vegan substitute, such as applesauce or soy yogurt, for an egg-free version.
Nutritional benefits:
Pea soup is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Peas are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins, beneficial for digestion and maintaining cardiovascular health. Additionally, adding dill can provide antioxidants and support the immune system.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned peas?: While we recommend fresh or frozen peas for better taste, you can also use canned peas. Make sure to rinse them well to remove excess salt or preservatives.
- How can I store the soup?: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can freeze it in portions for a quick meal in the coming days.
- What other recipes can I try?: This soup pairs wonderfully with a salad of raw vegetables or freshly baked bread. You can also serve a dry white wine or herbal tea for a perfect meal.
In conclusion, pea soup with spetzli is not just a delicious dish, but also a recipe that connects us to cherished childhood memories. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love from my mother's kitchen. So, put on your apron and let’s cook together!
Ingredients: 500 g fine peas, fresh or frozen, 2 medium onions, 1 bunch of dill, salt, pepper, 2-3 tablespoons of butter, for spätzle, 2 eggs, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 2 cups flour, 1 tablespoon melted butter, pepper or sweet paprika
