Mary Berry's Pea And Mint Soup Recipe [GUIDE]

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup is a refreshing, vibrant, and subtly sweet soup that combines the smoothness of peas with the refreshing zing of mint. A true delight for the senses, this soup offers a perfect balance of flavors, making it a wonderful choice for both warm weather and when you need a light, revitalizing meal during colder months.

Known for her expertise in classic British cooking, Mary Berry’s version of pea soup brings out the delicate sweetness of fresh peas, enhanced by the coolness of mint. This dish is often seen as a great starter or light lunch option. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and provides a nutritious base full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The mint not only adds a unique twist but also works to elevate the flavor profile, making it incredibly refreshing and an absolute crowd-pleaser.

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. The peas form the base, while the mint and a hint of lemon or lime zest brighten it up. The use of fresh ingredients makes this soup feel more vibrant than its canned counterparts, providing a homemade, wholesome touch that’s perfect for any occasion.

Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To create Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup, you’ll need just a few fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a harmonious and delicious dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

Frozen Peas (or fresh peas, depending on availability) – The main ingredient! You’ll need around 500 grams (about 17 oz) of peas. Frozen peas are often preferred due to their sweetness and year-round availability, but fresh peas can be used for a more delicate flavor if they’re in season.
Fresh Mint Leaves – This is where the soup gets its signature refreshing flavor. A generous handful of fresh mint leaves will infuse the soup with a fragrant, herbaceous note that complements the sweetness of the peas.
Onion – Typically, a medium-sized onion will do. It provides depth and a slightly savory backdrop to the soup, balancing the sweetness of the peas and the mint.
Vegetable Stock – You’ll need approximately 1 liter (around 4 cups) of vegetable stock. This serves as the base liquid for the soup, giving it richness and an added layer of flavor. You can use a homemade vegetable stock or a good-quality store-bought one.
Butter – A tablespoon or two of unsalted butter will help sauté the onions and provide a creamy, smooth texture to the soup.
Olive Oil – This is optional, but some people prefer adding a splash of olive oil along with the butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
Lemon Juice or Zest – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a teaspoon of lemon zest can brighten up the soup, bringing a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness.
Salt and Pepper – To season the soup to taste. These are essential for ensuring all the flavors come together harmoniously.
Cream (optional) – While not a required ingredient, a swirl of cream can be added just before serving to make the soup extra rich and indulgent.

Equipment Needed

The equipment required for this soup is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven – You’ll need a spacious pot for sautéing the onions and simmering the peas and stock together. A Dutch oven or any large, heavy-bottomed pot works perfectly for even heat distribution.
Sharp Knife – A sharp knife is essential for chopping your onions and mint leaves. Precision makes a difference, especially with the mint, which you want to keep in large, fragrant pieces.
Ladle – This will come in handy when transferring the soup into bowls for serving.
Blender or Immersion Blender – You’ll need something to purée the soup once it’s cooked. A stand blender or immersion blender works perfectly here. An immersion blender (hand blender) can be especially convenient, as you can blend the soup directly in the pot.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – For accurate measurements of ingredients like vegetable stock, butter, and seasonings.
Wooden Spoon – This is ideal for stirring the soup while cooking to prevent any sticking or burning on the bottom.
Soup Bowls – For serving your freshly made soup! A wide, deep bowl works best to show off the vibrant green color of the soup.

Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup

Making this pea and mint soup is incredibly simple, with only a few key steps involved. Here’s how you can create this refreshing soup from scratch:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by finely chopping the onion and mint leaves. If you’re using fresh peas, shell them and set them aside. If you’re using frozen peas, you can skip this step.
Cook the Onion

Heat a tablespoon of butter (and a bit of olive oil, if you prefer) in your large pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the chopped onion. Sauté it for around 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The sweetness of the onion will begin to develop, which is crucial for building the soup’s flavor base.
Add the Peas and Stock

Add your peas to the pot, followed by the vegetable stock. Stir everything together, ensuring the peas are well coated in the buttery onions and stock. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the peas to soften and soak up the flavors of the stock.
Blend the Soup

Once the peas are tender and have absorbed the flavors, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup directly in the pot until it’s smooth and creamy. If you’re using a stand blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to the blender and blend until smooth.
Add the Mint

Once blended, return the soup to the pot if you used a stand blender. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and allow them to infuse the soup for a minute or two. The heat of the soup will bring out the mint’s aromatic oils, creating a wonderfully fragrant finish.
Season and Serve

Taste your soup and add salt, pepper, and lemon juice or zest as needed. A touch of lemon really helps to brighten the dish. If you’re adding cream for extra richness, stir it in at this point. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.

Tips And Tricks

For a Smooth Texture: If you prefer a velvety-smooth texture, strain the soup through a fine mesh sieve after blending to remove any remaining pea skins or bits of mint leaves.
Enhance the Flavor: To elevate the flavor further, add a clove of garlic when sautéing the onions, or a small knob of ginger for a subtle warmth that pairs well with the peas.
Creamy Alternative: Instead of cream, you can blend in a small dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy richness that complements the peas and mint perfectly.
Freezing: This soup freezes well for future meals. Simply allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and freezing. When ready to enjoy, defrost and reheat gently on the stove.
Garnish Ideas: For an extra pop of color and texture, try garnishing with a few whole peas, extra mint leaves, or a drizzle of cream.

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup is an iconic recipe that captures the essence of fresh, wholesome ingredients, combining them in a way that feels both simple and elegant. With its smooth texture, vibrant green color, and refreshing minty kick, this soup is a perfect dish for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, an appetizer for a dinner party, or a meal to nourish you after a busy day, this recipe delivers.

It’s quick and easy to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, and the final result is something that feels incredibly satisfying. Mary Berry’s careful balance of flavors – from the sweet peas to the bright mint – creates a comforting yet lively dish that will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup is a refreshing, vibrant dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of peas and the fresh, aromatic flavors of mint. It’s a simple yet comforting recipe, but there are so many creative variations that can add extra layers of flavor, texture, and even nutrition. Whether you’re looking to experiment with different vegetables, add a protein boost, or change the overall taste profile, there’s a multitude of ways to customize this soup to your personal taste.

1. Adding Protein For A Hearty Meal

If you’re aiming for a heartier meal, adding a source of protein can turn this light soup into something more filling. Here are some ideas:

Chicken or Turkey: You can add grilled or shredded chicken or turkey to the soup. These lean proteins pair perfectly with the fresh mint and sweet peas. Simply add diced chicken breast or ground turkey to the pot while cooking, allowing it to absorb the soup’s flavors.
Lentils or Beans: For a vegetarian version, throw in a handful of cooked lentils or chickpeas. Not only do these legumes add protein, but they also contribute a slight creaminess when blended, making the soup thicker and more substantial.
Crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese: For a rich, tangy addition, crumbled feta or goat cheese will provide a creamy texture and an extra layer of savory goodness that complements the peas and mint beautifully.

2. Enhancing With Vegetables

While the original recipe focuses on peas and mint, there’s always room for extra veggies to enhance the flavor and nutrition. A few easy additions could be:

Leeks or Shallots: Sautéed leeks or shallots can be added to the base for a sweeter, more refined onion flavor. These ingredients deepen the flavor profile and make the soup feel more complex.
Zucchini or Spinach: Add zucchini for a mild, slightly earthy taste or spinach for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals. These vegetables cook down quickly and can be blended seamlessly into the soup.
Carrots or Celery: For a classic soup base, a few chopped carrots or celery can introduce more aromatic notes and a little natural sweetness. These vegetables bring a mild, earthy taste that balances out the fresh mint and peas.

3. Flavor Twists With Herbs And Spices

While mint is the star herb in this soup, there are other herbs and spices that can create exciting variations:

Basil or Parsley: Try adding a handful of fresh basil or parsley to the soup. Basil gives a fragrant, slightly peppery flavor that can add depth, while parsley provides freshness and brightness.
Curry Powder or Cumin: If you’re in the mood for a spiced-up version of this soup, sprinkle in a teaspoon of curry powder or cumin. These spices can give the soup an entirely new dimension with earthy warmth and exotic undertones.
Ginger or Lemon Zest: For a zesty kick, a touch of freshly grated ginger or lemon zest will enhance the freshness of the peas and mint, providing a burst of citrusy fragrance that works beautifully in summer months.

4. Creamy Alternatives

While the traditional recipe might use a splash of cream or milk, there are alternatives for those looking to create a dairy-free or vegan version:

Coconut Milk: If you’re seeking a creamy, dairy-free version of the soup, coconut milk is a perfect choice. Its natural sweetness and richness will complement the peas while keeping the soup lush and velvety.
Cashew Cream: For a thicker, dairy-free texture, you can blend soaked cashews with water to make a rich, creamy cashew cream. Stir this into the soup to add creaminess without the need for dairy.

5. Toppings And Garnishes

Toppings can elevate the soup both visually and flavor-wise. Here are some fun ways to finish the soup:

Croutons: Homemade or store-bought croutons add crunch and texture. You can even toss them with olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs before toasting them to intensify the flavor.
Yogurt or Sour Cream: A dollop of thick Greek yogurt or sour cream will add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the peas. You can swirl it in for a creamy finish.
Toasted Seeds or Nuts: A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped roasted almonds can provide a delightful crunch and bring a nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smooth soup.

Storing Leftovers

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup can be easily stored and enjoyed as leftovers, making it a convenient dish to prepare in advance. Here are some helpful tips for storing and reheating the soup:

Refrigerating

How to Store: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Make sure the container is sealed properly to avoid contamination or absorption of other fridge odors.
Reheating: When reheating, do so slowly on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the soup thickens in the fridge, simply add a little vegetable stock or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

Freezing

How to Freeze: If you have extra soup and want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It’s a good idea to portion the soup into smaller servings, so you can easily thaw just what you need.
Freezing Tips: When freezing, avoid adding any cream or yogurt as these can separate when thawed. If you want a creamy texture, add the cream or dairy product after reheating the soup.
Thawing and Reheating: To thaw, place the soup in the fridge overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat on the stove as you would with freshly made soup.

What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup?

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup is a light, refreshing dish that pairs well with a variety of sides to make a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to serve alongside this vibrant soup:

1. Fresh Bread

Crusty French Baguette: The crispy crust of a freshly baked baguette is perfect for dipping into the smooth, velvety soup. Its airy interior absorbs the soup beautifully.
Warm Focaccia: A slice of rosemary-infused focaccia brings additional herbal notes and a satisfying chewy texture. Add a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Homemade Sourdough: If you’re looking for something with a tangy flavor, homemade sourdough is an excellent pairing. The slight acidity of the bread complements the sweetness of the peas.

2. Salads

Mixed Green Salad: A light, leafy salad with mixed greens like arugula, spinach, and watercress adds some peppery contrast to the mild soup. A simple vinaigrette with olive oil and lemon dressing can brighten up the entire meal.
Cucumber and Feta Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with feta cheese, red onion, and a squeeze of lemon can add some crunch and tang, balancing out the creamy smoothness of the soup.

3. Cheese

Cheese Platter: Pair the soup with a selection of cheeses such as creamy goat cheese, brie, or a sharp cheddar. The combination of flavors is excellent for a more indulgent meal.
Parmesan Crisps: For a crunchy and savory contrast, serve the soup with homemade parmesan crisps. These are simple to make by baking grated parmesan in small mounds until golden and crisp.

4. Protein Additions

Grilled Fish: A piece of grilled fish, such as salmon or white fish, can elevate the soup into a more substantial meal. The light, flaky texture works well with the fresh flavors of the soup.
Poached Eggs: For a more filling meal, serve the soup with a poached egg on top. The creamy yolk will add richness, while the egg provides additional protein.

Conclusion

Mary Berry’s Pea and Mint Soup is a versatile, flavorful dish that offers endless possibilities for customization. Whether you’re adding protein, experimenting with different vegetables, or adjusting the herbs and spices, the soup is easily adaptable to suit your tastes. Storing leftovers is simple, making it an ideal option for meal prep, while pairing the soup with sides like fresh bread, salads, or grilled proteins can turn it into a complete and satisfying meal. This vibrant soup is not just a dish to enjoy on its own, but a delightful base to explore a world of flavors and textures. Whether enjoyed as a light starter or a hearty main, it is sure to be a hit at any meal.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup?

To make Mary Berry’s pea and mint soup, you’ll need the following ingredients: fresh or frozen peas, a few sprigs of fresh mint, vegetable stock, a medium-sized onion, garlic, olive oil, butter, salt, and pepper. For a creamy finish, you can also use a splash of double cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to garnish.

Can I Make Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup In Advance And Freeze It?

Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s pea and mint soup in advance and freeze it. The soup freezes well, so once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost it overnight in the fridge and reheat it on the stove. You might need to add a little extra liquid when reheating, as it can thicken over time.

Can I Substitute Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can make several substitutions in Mary Berry’s pea and mint soup recipe. If you don’t have fresh mint, you can use dried mint or experiment with other herbs like basil or parsley. For a richer flavor, you could swap the vegetable stock for chicken stock, or for a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream instead of double cream. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker soup, blend less or use more peas.

Mary Berry’s Pea And Mint Soup Recipe [GUIDE]