Fragrant Green Pea and Cauliflower Soup
This fragrant soup combines the hearty goodness of meatballs with the freshness of vegetables, creating a comforting and nourishing bowl perfect for any occasion. The meatballs, hand-formed from ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices, are simmered to perfection, infusing the broth with rich flavor. Fresh cauliflower and potatoes add substance and texture, while green peas lend a pop of color and sweetness. Not only is this dish flavorful, but it also packs a nutritional punch, perfect for a cozy lunch or dinner. It's a straightforward recipe, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks alike. This dish is a wonderful way to enjoy the bounties of your vegetable garden or to use up extra frozen peas. The balance of spices and fresh ingredients makes it a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire. With a preparation time of just 35 minutes, you can quickly prepare a wholesome and delicious meal for your family. Serve it hot and enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g ground meat
- 3 potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 1 packet frozen green peas
- 1 small cauliflower
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp breadcrumbs
Spices
Preparation Time
35 minutes (including preparation and cooking time)
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Prepare Vegetables: Start by slicing the carrots into rounds. Break the cauliflower into small florets and cut the potatoes into cubes for even cooking.
- Cook Vegetables: Fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the carrot slices, cauliflower florets, and potato cubes. Allow these to cook in simmering water while you prepare the meatballs.
- Make Meatball Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with the breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Meatballs: With your hands, form small meatballs from the meat mixture, each about the size of a walnut. Ensure they are well compacted, so they do not fall apart while cooking.
- Cook Meatballs: Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering vegetable pot. Stir gently to ensure they do not stick to the bottom.
- Add Peas: Once the meatballs are firm, add the packet of frozen green peas to the pot. The peas will add a sweet flavor to the soup.
- Flavoring: Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste. Add the bay leaf for a subtle aromatic hint.
- Simmer: Allow the soup to continue simmering gently until the vegetables are tender and flavors well combined.
- Check Consistency: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ensure that the soup is hot and the vegetables are soft.
- Serve: Pour the soup into bowls, removing the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy this warming and nutritious meal!
Tips
- For a deeper flavor, sauté the vegetables slightly in olive oil before boiling.
- Substitute fresh peas for frozen if available, adding them later to preserve their vibrant color.
- Add a handful of fresh herbs like dill or parsley for enhanced flavor right before serving.
Nutritions
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 25g
- Fats: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
Variations
- For a vegetarian option, replace meatballs with tofu or mushroom balls.
- Season with spices like smoked paprika or cumin for a different taste profile.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a hearty meal.
- Garnish with freshly chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Best Places
- Bistro Verde - A charming café known for its fresh, green-themed menu. Location: 23 Greenway Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
- VegCycles Café - Famous for innovative vegetable-inspired dishes. Location: 12 Plant Street, London, UK.
- The Veggie Bowl - A cozy spot serving nourishing soups. Location: 47 Seed Ave, New York, USA.
- Herb Garden Bistro - Known for its fresh herb-infused dishes. Location: 15 Sprout Rd, Toronto, Canada.
- Pea & Pod Eatery - Specializes in pea-based delicacies. Location: 32 Blossom Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
- Garden Delight Café - Features farm-to-table soups. Location: 9 Petal Park, Vancouver, Canada.
- Flavorful Fields - Offers a diverse menu with a focus on seasonal veggies. Location: 6 Orchard Row, Wellington, New Zealand.
- Cauliflower Corner - Noted for creative cauliflower dishes. Location: 88 Stem Street, Paris, France.
- Soup Seasons - Popular for comforting soup varieties. Location: 41 Broth Blvd, San Francisco, USA.
- Greens & More - Renowned for its green-centric recipes. Location: 74 Lara Lane, Melbourne, Australia.