Pea and Mint Soup

Immerse yourself in the bright and refreshing flavors of spring with the Vibrant Pea and Mint Soup. This delightful dish presents a harmonious blend of sweet peas, fresh mint, and savory ham, creating a symphony of taste that’s perfect for embracing the season’s abundance. As the weather warms and nature awakens, this soup captures the essence of renewal and vitality in every spoonful. With a velvety texture and a burst of vibrant colors, it’s a treat for both the palate and the senses.

SERVES 4–6
PREP 15 MIN
COOK 20–25 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 2 MONTHS BEFORE CRÈME FRAÎCHE IS ADDED

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tbsp (40g) butter
• 2 shallots, finely chopped
• 1 potato, peeled and chopped
• 1 1⁄4 cups (300ml) hot vegetable stock
• 1 3⁄4 cups (400ml) water
• 1lb (500g) frozen peas, defrosted
• 2 handfuls of fresh mint leaves, plus 2 tbsp extra for garnishing
• 5oz (150g) cooked ham, diced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2–3 tbsp (150ml) crème fraîche, to serve

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Begin by melting the butter in a pot over low heat. Add the finely chopped shallots and cook for 2–3 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Introduce the chopped potato and continue cooking, covered, for an additional 7–10 minutes, until the potato pieces are tender.
2. Pour the hot vegetable stock into the pot and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Meanwhile, in a separate pot, bring water to a boil and cook the frozen peas for 2–3 minutes. Add the fresh mint leaves for the final 20 seconds of cooking. Drain the peas and mint through a sieve set over a bowl, reserving the cooking liquid in the bowl. Transfer the cooked peas and mint leaves to the stock in the first pot.
4. Utilize a blender to process the soup until it becomes smooth and velvety. Gradually add enough of the reserved cooking liquid from the peas to achieve your desired consistency. Stir in the diced ham to enhance the savory element of the soup.
5. For an enchanting garnish, prepare dried mint leaves. Cover a dinner plate with plastic wrap and brush it with olive oil. Arrange the extra mint leaves on the surface, then cover with another layer of plastic wrap. Microwave the plate for 2 minutes until the mint leaves turn crisp.
6. Reheat the soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your taste preferences. When serving, ladle the soup into bowls and add a dollop of crème fraîche in the center. Enhance the presentation with the dried mint leaves, creating a visually appealing and flavorful masterpiece.

NOTE:

• The Vibrant Pea and Mint Soup is a celebration of spring’s freshness and the magic that happens when seasonal ingredients are combined with creativity. With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, this soup is a perfect way to welcome the warmer months and indulge in the artistry of culinary craftsmanship.