Peas and Dumpling Soup with Smoked Ham

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) sweet green peas 2 cups (400g) sweet green peas
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (150g) smoked ham, diced 1 cup (150g) smoked ham, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 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
• For the dumplings: For the dumplings:
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• Salt to taste Salt to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 40g, 8g
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced ham, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the ham is slightly browned.
2. 2.
   Add the sweet green peas, vegetable broth, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
3. 3.
   While the soup is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, eggs, milk, and salt. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
4. 4.
   Once the peas are tender, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Using an immersion blender or a countertop blender, puree the soup until smooth.
5. 5.
   Return the soup to the pot and bring it back to a simmer. Using two spoons, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering soup. Cook for 10 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. 7.
   Ladle the Peas and Dumpling Soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sweet green peas — If fresh peas are not available, frozen peas can be used as a substitute. Make sure to thaw them before adding to the soup.
• Smoked ham — For a vegetarian version, omit the ham or replace it with smoked tofu for a smoky flavor.
• Dumplings — Be careful not to overmix the dumpling batter, as it can result in dense dumplings. Mix until just combined for light and fluffy dumplings.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, add diced potatoes or carrots to the soup.
• Garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream or crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of the soup.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or pretzel rolls for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Peas and Dumpling Soup hot in individual bowls. Accompany it with a side of freshly baked bread or pretzel rolls for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. The vibrant green color of the soup can be highlighted by serving it in white or light-colored bowls.