Luxembourgian-style Green Pea Soup

Ingredients

In the original Slovak cuisine, Hrachová polévka is typically made with dried split peas and flavored with smoked meat. However, in this Luxembourgian adaptation, we use fresh green peas as the main ingredient and omit the smoked meat. The Luxembourgian version focuses on the natural sweetness and freshness of the peas, enhanced by a blend of aromatic herbs. We alse have the original recipe for Hrachová polévka, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green peas 500g (1.1 lb) fresh green peas
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish Fresh parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 8g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the fresh green peas to the pot and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme and bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. 4.
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
5. 5.
   Remove the bay leaves from the pot. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   Return the soup to the pot and heat it gently until warmed through.
7. 7.
   Serve the Luxembourgian-style Green Pea Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fresh green peas — If fresh peas are not available, you can use frozen peas as a substitute. Make sure to thaw them before using in the recipe.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream to the soup before serving.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a tangy twist.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or croutons for added texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Luxembourgian-style Green Pea Soup as a starter before a main course or as a light lunch or dinner option. Pair it with a fresh salad or a slice of warm bread for a complete meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the soup with a sprig of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil to add a pop of color and enhance the visual appeal. Serve it in a bowl or a soup tureen for an elegant presentation.