Pea soup with cheese cream

Pea soup with cream cheese: a comforting delight

Pea soup with cream cheese is a recipe that combines the delicate flavors of vegetables with the freshness of herbs, creating a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of comfort on cooler days. This recipe is not only simple but also quick, ideal for a family dinner or to impress guests at a special meal.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 800 ml milk
- 2 sprigs of fresh mint
- 2 sprigs of fresh tarragon
- 1 can (800 g) peas and carrots, drained
- 150 ml fresh orange juice
- 1 teaspoon sea salt with herbs
- Plain sea salt, to taste
- 250 g cream cheese
- 40 g cornstarch dissolved in 50 ml cold water

Preparing the pea soup with cream cheese

1. Boil the milk with the herbs
In a medium pot, pour the milk and add the mint and tarragon sprigs. Cover the pot and place it over medium heat. Wait until the milk reaches boiling point. This step is essential as the infusion of herbs will give the soup a subtle and fresh flavor.

2. Add the peas and carrots
Once the milk has started to boil, remove the lid and add the drained peas and carrots. These vegetables will contribute a pleasant texture and a hint of sweetness. Let them boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Incorporate the orange juice
After the peas and carrots have warmed up, add the fresh orange juice. This will add an interesting contrast of acidity and sweetness, balancing the flavors of the soup. Boil everything together for another minute.

4. Blend the soup
Remove the pot from the heat and use a blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have a blender, you can use a food processor. Make sure no large pieces of peas or carrots remain.

5. Reheat and season
Put the pureed soup back in the pot over low heat. Add sea salt with herbs and plain salt, to taste. This step is important as adjusting the seasonings will highlight the delicate flavors of the ingredients.

6. Incorporate the cream cheese
In a separate bowl, whip the cream cheese to make it creamier. Add a few tablespoons of warm soup to dilute it, then pour the mixture into the pot, stirring well to combine everything.

7. Thicken the soup
Dissolve the cornstarch in the 50 ml of cold water. Add the mixture to the soup, stirring continuously. Let the soup simmer until it thickens slightly, achieving a velvety texture.

8. Serve with style
The soup is now ready to be served. You can present it plain, but for an extra touch of flavor, add some croutons or toasted bread on top. A garnish of fresh mint leaves can add an elegant and fresh touch.

Practical tips for a perfect soup:
- Quality of ingredients: Use fresh milk and quality herbs. This will make a significant difference in flavor.
- Vegan option: You can replace the cream cheese with a nut-based product or tofu for a vegan version.
- Customized flavors: If you like a spicier taste, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Serving: This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a cheese tart for a complete lunch or dinner.

Nutritional information:
This pea soup with cream cheese is rich in protein and vitamins, with a moderate caloric intake. Approximately, one serving contains about 250-300 calories, depending on the type of cream cheese used. Peas are an excellent source of fiber and protein, while orange juice adds vitamin C.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh peas instead of canned?
Yes, fresh peas are an excellent choice. Make sure to boil them enough to become tender.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can reheat it easily on the stove or in the microwave.

3. What other ingredients can I add?
You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to vary the texture and flavor.

Pea soup with cream cheese is more than just a simple meal; it is a culinary experience that will delight your senses. Savor every bite and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this recipe brings. Whether you prepare it for yourself, your family, or friends, this soup will surely become one of your favorites!