Creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat

Name: Creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat - Eliana A.
Ingredients: 500 g dried peas; 300 g smoked meat; sliced thinly; 2 onions; 2 carrots; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 5 liters of water; salt and pepper to taste; toasted bread for serving

Soups - Creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat by Eliana A. - Recipia

Creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat – Comfort in every spoon When winter makes its presence felt, and the cold invites us to seek warmth and comfort, there is nothing more comforting than a creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the richness of dried peas with the savoriness of smoked meat. It is an excellent choice for family meals or for moments when you want to indulge in a warm and delicious dish. Preparation time: 15 minutes Cooking time: 45 minutes Total time: 1 hour Number of servings: 6 Ingredients: - 500 g dried peas - 300 g smoked meat (pork, sausages, or any preferred type), cut into thin strips - 2 medium onions - 2 large carrots - 4 tablespoons olive oil - 5 liters water - Salt and pepper, to taste - Toasted bread, for serving A bit of history: Pea soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, often appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. Dried peas are an excellent source of protein and fiber, making them not only tasty but also healthy. The smoked meat adds an extra layer of flavor, turning this soup into a true feast. Step by step: 1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by rinsing the dried peas well under cold water. This will help remove impurities. Let the peas soak in cold water for about 30 minutes if you have time. This step is not essential, but it will reduce cooking time. 2. Sautéing the smoked meat: In a 6-liter pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the strips of smoked meat and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the smoked meat from the pot and place it on a plate, leaving the oil in the pot. 3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This step will enhance the flavor of the soup. 4. Add the peas: Add the peas to the pot and stir well for 2-3 minutes so that they are coated with the aromatic oil from the smoked meat. This will add an extra dimension of flavor. 5. Simmer the soup: Pour 5 liters of water into the pot, then add the onions and carrots. Simmer on low heat, covering the pot, for 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are soft. It is important not to boil the soup too vigorously, as the peas may break down and you will lose the creamy texture. 6. Puree the soup: Once the peas are cooked, strain the mixture, reserving the liquid. Place the peas, carrots, and onion in a blender, adding a little of the reserved liquid. Blend everything until you have a smooth and creamy puree. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add more liquid. 7. Reheat: Put the puree back into the pot, add the reserved liquid, and bring to a gentle boil to combine the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 8. Serving: Finally, serve the creamy soup in deep bowls, adding 1-2 tablespoons of sautéed smoked meat to each serving. This will add a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. You can enjoy the soup alongside crispy toasted bread, which will perfectly complement this comforting dish. Useful tips: - Choosing the peas: Make sure the dried peas are fresh and of good quality. Old peas may require a longer cooking time. - Smoked meat: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, from sausages to ham or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian option. - Texture: If you like a chunkier soup, you can leave some whole peas in the soup, adding them after you have blended the rest. - Variations: You can add spices like cumin or sweet paprika to enrich the flavors. Also, a little lemon juice added at the end can provide a refreshing touch. Frequently asked questions: - Can I use frozen peas instead of dried peas? Yes, but the cooking time will be significantly reduced. Boil the frozen peas for 15-20 minutes until they are soft. - How long can the soup be stored? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze leftovers in an airtight container for later consumption. - Is this soup suitable for vegans? With slight adjustments, such as replacing the smoked meat with smoked tofu or sautéed vegetables, you can adapt the recipe for a vegan version. This creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat is not just a simple dish but also a culinary experience that blends tradition and comfort. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or share it with loved ones, each spoonful will bring warmth and joy. Bon appétit!

Creamy dried pea soup with smoked meat

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