If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup, but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen, then look no further than a simple yet flavorful Canned Peas Soup. This recipe is a game-changer when it comes to quick meals that don’t compromise on taste. Canned peas, often overlooked in favor of fresh vegetables, bring a surprising depth of flavor and a smooth texture to the soup. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or just a quick meal to keep you satisfied, this canned peas soup is your answer.
What makes this recipe so special? Well, it’s incredibly easy to make, using pantry staples, yet it’s still packed with flavor. The peas offer a subtle sweetness, complemented by savory broth and aromatic herbs. Plus, it’s highly customizable, so feel free to add in your favorite ingredients. By the end of this post, you’ll be a canned peas soup enthusiast!
Canned Peas Soup Recipe
Let’s dive right into the deliciousness that is this Canned Peas Soup. It’s a fantastic balance of simplicity and flavor, and it can easily be adapted to suit your personal preferences.
Ingredients Needed
You won’t need a long grocery list for this recipe, which is what makes it such a go-to for last-minute meals. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cans of peas (15 oz each) – This is your main base, and the peas provide that velvety texture and natural sweetness.
- 1 medium onion – A mild, finely chopped onion adds a soft, aromatic flavor that builds the foundation of the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic – Garlic is a must for depth of flavor; it adds a little kick without overpowering the peas.
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – This is the liquid base that brings everything together. Broth will add rich, savory depth to the soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing your onions and garlic, and also a little bit of extra richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Thyme has earthy, woodsy notes that pair beautifully with peas and help elevate the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – For a bit of heat and added seasoning.
- Salt, to taste – You’ll need to adjust the salt based on your broth’s sodium content.
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream or milk (optional) – This optional ingredient will make your soup extra creamy and indulgent.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s start cooking! This recipe is quick, so get your stovetop ready.
-
Sauté The Onions And Garlic
- Heat your olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it turns soft and translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, making sure it doesn’t burn. This will release all those delicious aromatic oils.
-
Add The Broth And Peas
- Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Drain and rinse your canned peas, then add them to the pot. Stir everything together.
-
Season And Simmer
- Add the thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir the soup, cover it, and let it simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Blend And Cream (optional)
- Once the peas have softened, take an immersion blender and blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but make sure to let the soup cool a bit before blending.
- For a creamy texture, stir in the heavy cream or milk at the end. This step is optional, but it makes the soup extra rich and velvety.
-
Final Taste Check
- Give the soup a final taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed (more salt, pepper, or even a bit of lemon juice to brighten it up).
-
Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs (parsley or thyme works well), and enjoy!
Ingredient Insights
Understanding your ingredients makes the final dish even more enjoyable. Let’s break down why each component is essential and how they contribute to the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Canned Peas: While fresh peas might be preferred for some dishes, canned peas provide an easy, hassle-free alternative. The canned variety is already cooked and soft, so they blend perfectly into a smooth, comforting soup. Plus, they are full of fiber and vitamins like Vitamin C and K.
- Onion and Garlic: These two are the building blocks of many delicious soups. Onions bring a natural sweetness when sautéed, and garlic adds a savory aroma that ties everything together.
- Vegetable Broth: This ingredient serves as the liquid base for your soup, and it’s packed with umami. Whether you use vegetable broth or chicken broth, it adds a rich, savory flavor that makes the peas really shine.
- Heavy Cream (optional): Creamy soups are universally adored because they feel luxurious, and the richness of cream can transform a simple dish into something indulgent. But even without cream, this soup is silky thanks to the pureed peas.
Expert Tips
To make sure your canned peas soup comes out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Blending tips: If you like a bit of texture, don’t over-blend the soup. Pulse it a few times so that it retains some of the pea chunks.
- Fresh herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley added at the end can really elevate the soup’s flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrancy and complexity that dried herbs can’t match.
- Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or blend less. On the other hand, if you like a thinner soup, just add more broth.
- Simmer time: Don’t rush the simmering process! Let the soup sit on low heat for a good 15 minutes to allow all the flavors to meld.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about canned peas soup is its versatility. You can tweak the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add potatoes: For a heartier soup, throw in a few diced potatoes. They will cook down into the soup, adding more texture and flavor.
- Spicy twist: Add a chopped chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Bacon lovers: Crisp up some bacon and crumble it on top of the soup for added crunch and a smoky flavor.
- Herb variations: Instead of thyme, try rosemary or dill. These herbs can give the soup a different flavor profile while still complementing the peas.
Final Words
Canned peas soup is proof that simple ingredients can make for a delicious, hearty meal. With just a few pantry staples and a little love, you can create something that’s both satisfying and comforting. Plus, it’s customizable! You can easily experiment with additional ingredients or seasonings to match your preferences, making this recipe a timeless one to keep in your rotation.