Foamy Pea Soup with Silky Eggs & Crispy Ham Recipe: A Gourmet Delight
Imagine a chilly evening that calls for something warm and comforting. Your search ends with the Foamy Pea Soup with Silky Eggs & Crispy Ham recipe. This dish combines the smoothness of aerated pea soup, the delicate texture of silky eggs, and the satisfying crunch of crispy ham.
You will get to enjoy a unique dining experience. The rich, protein-packed pea soup achieves its irresistible velvety texture through FastGas whipped cream chargers. The foamy consistency adds a gourmet twist, elevating the traditional soup to new culinary heights.
Not only does this dish provide comfort, but it is also straightforward to prepare. With components like silky eggs adding a creamy touch and crispy ham offering a savoury contrast, every spoonful promises a delightful texture and flavour combination. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to make your cosy night in even more special.
Recipe Preparation and Cooking Guide
In this guide, you will learn the essentials of crafting a delicious Foamy Pea Soup with Silky Eggs and Crispy Ham, focusing on key ingredients, precise cooking steps, and effective plating and garnishing techniques.
Ingredients and Seasonings
For this recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- Frozen peas: 500 grams
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Shallots: Finely chopped, 2 medium-sized
- Garlic: Minced, 2 cloves
- Water: 1 litre
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
- Ham: 200 grams, thinly sliced and roasted
- Eggs: Cooked sous-vide, 4 large
- Bay leaves: 2
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Drizzle for garnish
- Parsley: Fresh and chopped, for garnish
These ingredients ensure a flavourful and creamy soup with a nice balance of textures from the ham, eggs, and fresh herbs.
Cooking Steps
Begin by melting the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
Add the shallots and garlic, cooking until they are soft and fragrant. This step develops a strong flavour base for the soup.
Next, add the frozen peas, bay leaves, and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove the soup from the heat and discard the bay leaves. Puree the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Roast the ham slices in the oven until they are crispy and golden.
Prepare the sous-vide eggs at 63 degrees Celsius for 45 minutes to achieve a silky texture.
Plating and Garnishing
Pour the foamed pea soup into warm bowls to maintain its temperature.
Place a silky sous-vide egg gently in the centre of each bowl.
Scatter pieces of crispy ham around the egg for a delightful contrast.
Finish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant look.
Serve with crusty bread on the side to complement the creamy texture of the soup.
This presentation adds visual appeal and enhances the overall dining experience.
Nutrition and Storage Information
Foamy Pea Soup with Silky Eggs & Crispy Ham is both nutritious and delicious. Learn about its health benefits, nutritional value, and the best ways to store leftovers for future enjoyment.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Value
This soup is rich in protein thanks to its pea and egg white content. Each serving provides essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice. For instance, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron are present in significant amounts, benefiting your overall health.
In terms of macronutrients, a typical serving contains around 195-220 calories, with a breakdown of approximately 24% protein, 57% carbs, and 19% fat. The dish also has a low-fat content with only about 1 gram of saturated fat and 15 milligrams of cholesterol, making it heart-friendly.
Storage Tips
To keep the soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate immediately. It can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in portions using freezer-safe containers. Frozen soup maintains its quality for about 2-3 months.
When reheating, ensure the soup is thoroughly warmed without overcooking to retain its creamy texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and achieve a uniform consistency. It’s best to reheat on the stove over medium heat or use a microwave-safe container if microwaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common queries about achieving the perfect foamy pea soup with silky eggs and crispy ham. You’ll find tips on texture, flavour enhancement, ingredient alternatives, and cooking methods.
What are the steps to achieve a smooth texture in pea soup?
To ensure a smooth texture, use a blender to puree the cooked peas and broth until completely smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any remaining solids, if needed. Incorporating a cream charger can add an additional velvety texture.
Can you suggest alternatives to ham for adding crispiness to the soup?
For those looking for alternatives to ham, consider using crispy bacon, fried pancetta, or even roasted chickpeas. These options provide a savoury crunch that complements the soup without ham.
What ingredients are essential to enhance the flavour of pea soup?
Key ingredients that elevate the flavour include garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika. Adding a splash of lemon juice or balsamic vinegar can also brighten and balance the soup’s taste.
How can one incorporate eggs into pea soup while maintaining a silky consistency?
Cooking the eggs, sous vide is ideal for maintaining silky eggs in your soup. This method keeps the eggs at a controlled temperature, resulting in a soft and creamy texture. Alternatively, poaching the eggs gently can also achieve similar results.
What is the most effective method to prevent pea soup from becoming too thin?
To prevent the soup from being too thin, control the amount of liquid added during cooking. Start with less broth and gradually add more as needed. Incorporating a roux or blending in cooked potatoes can thicken the soup without compromising its flavour.
How long should pea soup be cooked to ensure the flavours are well blended?
Cooking pea soup on low heat for at least 1 to 2 hours allows the flavours to meld together. For a richer taste, consider simmering the soup with a ham bone or smoked meat for an extended period, enhancing depth and complexity.