Pea soup with dumplings

Pea soup with dumplings – a recipe full of nostalgia and spring flavors

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Every spring, when the flowers start to bloom and the air is filled with fresh fragrances, I remember the pea soup that my grandmother used to make. This recipe is not just a simple soup, but a true journey back in time, to family meals filled with joy. With each spoonful, the memory of sunny days spent in the countryside returns, with fresh vegetables from the garden and a smile on my lips.

Pea soup with dumplings is a comforting and nourishing dish, ideal for the cooler spring days. So, let’s get to work!

Ingredients:
- 400 g peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 large carrots
- 1 onion
- 2 eggs
- 3-4 tablespoons of flour
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 200 ml sour cream (for cooking)
- One large lemon (juice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Chili pepper (optional, for serving)

Detailed instructions:

1. Preparing the vegetables:
Start by peeling the carrots, then wash them under cold running water. Cut them into thin rounds for even cooking. Leave the onion whole, as it will add flavor to the soup and will be removed later.

2. Sautéing the carrots:
In a 4-liter pot, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the sliced carrots and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become golden. This will add a pleasant color to the soup.

3. Adding the peas:
After the carrots are sautéed, add the peas. If you are using frozen peas, there is no need to thaw them beforehand. Continue to stir to combine the flavors.

4. Boiling the soup:
Cover the vegetables with water or, for a richer flavor, you can use clear chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, until the peas and carrots become tender.

5. Preparing the dumplings:
In a bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Whisk the egg whites until they form a foam. Then add the two yolks and continue mixing. Gradually incorporate 2 tablespoons of oil and the flour until you achieve a soft but firm dough, slightly firmer than sponge cake batter.

6. Shaping and cooking the dumplings:
When the vegetables in the soup are cooked, use a wet teaspoon to scoop out the dumplings and drop them into the soup. They will float to the surface while boiling. Let them cook for 10 minutes until they become fluffy.

7. Finishing the soup:
In a separate bowl, mix the sour cream with the lemon juice. Take a ladle of hot soup and pour it over the sour cream mixture, stirring constantly to temper the cream. Then add this mixture to the pot, stirring well.

8. Serving:
Once you have turned off the heat, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top. Pea soup with dumplings is served hot, accompanied by a chili pepper for those who prefer a bit of spice. Enjoy your meal!

Useful tips:
- Choosing peas: If you use fresh peas, make sure they are firm and green. Frozen peas are an excellent alternative and cook just as well.
- Dumplings: You can add spices to the dumpling dough, such as a pinch of nutmeg or garlic powder, for extra flavor.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as potatoes or celery, to diversify the taste. You can also replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Nutritional benefits:
Pea soup is rich in plant protein, vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making it a healthy and nourishing dish. It is ideal for a balanced diet and can support digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I make pea soup in advance? Yes, this soup can be prepared a day ahead, and the flavor will be even more intense the next day. Make sure to keep the dumplings separate and add them when reheating.
- What can I serve alongside the soup? A slice of fresh bread or a green salad with seasonal vegetables will pair perfectly.

Serving suggestion:
For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, you can add some toasted bread croutons on top of the soup or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for an intense flavor.

I hope this pea soup with dumplings recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and in your heart, just as it does for me! Enjoy!