Simple White Pea & Herb Soup
A hearty and comforting white pea soup, featuring a classic mirepoix base and fragrant herbs, offering a protein-packed and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
For 6 servings
**Prep Peas**: If not already done, thoroughly rinse the dried white peas. For quick soaking, place peas in a pot, cover with water by 2 inches, bring to a boil, boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour. Drain well. (If soaking overnight, simply drain and rinse).
**Sauté Aromatics**: In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
**Add Garlic & Herbs**: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
**Combine & Simmer**: Add the drained white peas, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, or until the peas are very tender and easily mashed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
**Achieve Desired Consistency**: Remove the bay leaf. For a chunkier soup, mash about half of the peas directly in the pot with a potato masher. For a smoother soup, carefully transfer 2-3 cups of the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the pot) and blend until creamy, then stir back into the pot.
**Season & Finish**: Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and adjust consistency if needed.
**Serve**: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with crusty bread if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1**Soaking Peas**: Don't skip soaking the peas! It significantly reduces cooking time and helps them cook more evenly, resulting in a creamier soup.
- 2**Immersion Blender**: An immersion blender is a fantastic tool for this soup, allowing you to control the consistency from chunky to smooth without transferring hot liquid.
- 3**Broth Quality**: Use a good quality vegetable broth for the best flavor. Homemade broth will elevate the soup even further.
- 4**Don't Over-Salt Early**: Season gradually. As the soup reduces slightly, the salt concentration will increase. Taste and adjust at the end for perfect seasoning.
Adapt it for your goals.
Smoky Flavor
Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the dried thyme for a deeper, smoky flavor profile. For non-vegan, a smoked ham hock can be simmered with the peas and removed before blending.
Creamy FinishCreamy Finish
Stir in 1/4 cup of full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream (for non-vegans) during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra rich and creamy texture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño (seeds removed for less heat) when sautéing the aromatics for a subtle warmth.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Digestive Health
White peas are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Rich in Protein
As a plant-based protein source, white peas contribute to muscle repair and growth, making this soup a satisfying and nutritious meal, especially for vegetarians and vegans.
Nutrient-Dense
Packed with essential vitamins (like folate and B vitamins) and minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and potassium), this soup supports overall bodily functions and energy production.
Frequently asked questions
While you can, the texture and flavor will be quite different. Dried white peas break down to create a creamy, hearty soup, whereas frozen peas will remain more distinct and sweet. This recipe is specifically designed for dried peas to achieve its characteristic consistency.
