Estonian Pea Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 2 hours  

   Prep Time: 20 minutes

Estonian Pea Soup Ingredients

Estonian Pea Soup Instructions

  1. Drain and rinse the dried yellow peas that have soaked overnight.
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked peas, 6 cups of cold water, and the smoked pork hock or ham bone.
  3. Add the bay leaf and whole black peppercorns to the pot.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
  5. Cover the pot and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas begin to soften.
  6. While the peas are cooking, melt the unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  7. Add the finely diced onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
  8. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  9. Transfer the sautéed vegetables and garlic to the pot with the peas and pork hock.
  10. Add the dried marjoram, ground allspice, and freshly ground black pepper to the soup.
  11. Continue to simmer the soup, uncovered, for another 30-40 minutes, or until the peas are very tender and the soup has thickened to your liking. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
  12. Remove the pork hock or ham bone from the pot. Shred any meat from the bone, discarding skin and bone, and return the meat to the soup.
  13. Stir in the kosher salt, chopped fresh dill, and chopped fresh parsley.
  14. If desired, pour in the heavy cream for added richness and stir well to combine.
  15. Add the apple cider vinegar and stir to brighten the flavors.
  16. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
  17. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra fresh dill before serving.

Estimated Calories: 327, Servings: 3

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Storage Tips

When it comes to storage, I always make sure to let my Estonian Pea Soup cool down to room temperature before popping it in the fridge. I find that using an airtight container is the best way to keep it fresh and prevent any weird fridge smells from sneaking in. If I know I will not get to it for a few days, I sometimes portion it out into smaller containers for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. This recipe is so hearty and healthy, and storing it properly means I can enjoy a delicious bowl whenever I want without any fuss.Shelf life is something I pay close attention to, especially with soups like this. In my experience, Estonian Pea Soup stays good in the fridge for about three to four days, which is great for meal prepping. If I want to keep it longer, I just freeze it, and it holds up really well for up to three months. It is always a fast and easy option to thaw out a portion for a quick meal, and I love knowing I have a healthy, homemade recipe ready to go.Reheating is a breeze, but I have learned a few tricks to keep the flavor retention at its best. I usually reheat my soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to make sure it heats evenly and stays delicious. If I am in a rush, the microwave works too, but I do it in short bursts and stir in between to avoid any hot spots. This method keeps the soup tasting just as good as when it was first made, and it is a great way to enjoy a fast, easy, and healthy meal without sacrificing any of that homemade flavor.

Estonian Pea Soup Story

When I first encountered this dish, I was honestly hesitant. Growing up, my family always stuck to what we knew, and we believed that the best meals were the ones passed down through generations. Trying something so unfamiliar felt like I was stepping away from my roots, and I worried it might not align with the values I was raised with. I had always thought that a good meal should be comforting and familiar, but this experience challenged that belief in a big way.
Another thing that made me pause was my commitment to eating healthy and sticking to recipes that fit my dietary restrictions. I usually look for easy and quick options that I know will be good for me, and I was not sure if this dish would fit the bill. I had to let go of my usual routine and trust the process, which was not easy for me. It was a great reminder that sometimes, stepping outside of your comfort zone can lead to delicious surprises, even if it is not what you are used to.
After giving it a try, I realized that being open to new experiences can be rewarding. The dish was not just fast to make, but it also brought a sense of adventure to my kitchen. I learned that a recipe does not have to be familiar to be delicious, and that sometimes the best memories come from trying something new. This experience taught me to be more flexible and to appreciate the great variety the world has to offer, both in food and in life.

Estonian Pea Soup History

When I first learned about Estonian pea soup, I was fascinated by its cultural origins. Estonia has a long history of hearty, warming dishes, and this soup is a great example of how people made the best use of what was available during the long, cold winters. I remember chatting with an Estonian friend who told me that this recipe was a staple in her grandmother's kitchen, especially during the fasting periods and on special occasions. It is amazing how a simple, healthy, and delicious meal like this can bring families together and keep traditions alive. The best part is that it is easy to make and always brings back good memories for those who grew up with it.
Over time, the recipe for Estonian pea soup has evolved quite a bit. Originally, it was a very basic dish, but as trade and travel became more common, people started adding new ingredients and flavors. I once tried a quick version at a modern Estonian café, and it was surprisingly different from the one I had at a traditional farmhouse. Some cooks now use smoked meats or even vegetarian alternatives to make it more appealing to a wider audience. It is great to see how a classic recipe can adapt to changing tastes while still keeping its core identity. I think it is a good example of how food can be both fast and easy to update without losing its roots.
One thing I find really interesting is how Estonian pea soup has influenced and been influenced by neighboring cuisines. Because Estonia is so close to countries like Finland, Russia, and Latvia, there has been a lot of culinary cross-pollination. I have noticed that some of the best versions of this soup borrow techniques or ingredients from these regions, making each bowl a little different depending on where you are. It is a delicious reminder that food is always evolving, and sometimes the most healthy and comforting recipes are the ones that travel the farthest. I love how a good, simple soup can connect people across borders in such a quick and meaningful way.

About Estonian Pea Soup Recipe

If you're on the hunt for the best homemade soup that's both easy and delicious, look no further than this authentic Estonian Pea Soup recipe. This dish is a staple in Estonian kitchens, and for good reason-it's hearty, tasty, and packed with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Wondering how to make the perfect bowl? The secret is in the slow simmer, which lets all those flavors mingle and create a truly comforting meal. Plus, with a few quick tips, you'll have a pot of soup that tastes like it's been passed down through generations (even if you just found the recipe online five minutes ago).
What makes this Estonian classic stand out from other pea soup recipes? It's all about the balance of flavors and the use of authentic ingredients. Smoked meats, split peas, and root vegetables come together to create a delicious, hearty base that's both filling and nutritious. The best part? This recipe is so easy to follow, even if your cooking skills are limited to boiling water and making toast. With a few simple steps, you'll have a tasty, homemade soup that's perfect for chilly evenings or impressing your friends with your newfound Estonian culinary prowess.
If you're still wondering how to make this quick and easy Estonian favorite, don't worry-we've got you covered with all the best tips for success. Make sure to soak your peas overnight for the creamiest texture, and don't skimp on the smoked meat for that authentic flavor. Whether you're a soup enthusiast or just looking for a new recipe to try, this Estonian Pea Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients, channel your inner Estonian chef, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of the most delicious, homemade soup you've ever tasted!

Healthy Estonian Pea Soup Tips

When I first set out to make the best homemade Estonian Pea Soup, I was determined to keep it as healthy as possible without sacrificing that authentic, delicious flavor everyone loves. Health is always on my mind, so I started by choosing high-quality, fresh ingredients-especially the peas, which are packed with protein and fiber for a health boost. Instead of using fatty cuts of pork, I opted for leaner meats or even went meatless sometimes, which made the recipe lighter and still incredibly tasty. I also made sure to use less salt and added plenty of fresh herbs for flavor, which is a great health tip if you're watching your sodium intake.
For me, the key to a healthy, easy, and quick Estonian-inspired Pea Soup is to load up on vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions. These not only add depth to the soup but also increase the health benefits with extra vitamins and minerals. I always remind myself that the best recipes are the ones that make you feel good, so I use whole, simple ingredients and avoid anything processed. If you're wondering how to make this classic dish even healthier, try swapping out traditional cream for a splash of plant-based milk or just skip it altogether for a lighter, yet still perfect, bowl. Trust me, with these tips, you'll have a tasty, authentic, and health-focused soup that's just as comforting as the original!