Description
A traditional Scandinavian comfort dish, Swedish Yellow Pea Soup (Ärtsoppa) is a hearty, golden-hued soup made from dried yellow peas, vegetables, and fragrant seasonings. Often enjoyed on Thursdays in Sweden, this warm and filling soup is typically served with bread and mustard, and sometimes followed by Swedish pancakes for a classic meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups dried yellow split peas, rinsed
- 8 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried marjoram
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp mustard (for serving, optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, combine the yellow peas and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes, skimming off any foam that rises.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, and marjoram. Continue simmering for another 30–40 minutes, or until peas are very soft and breaking apart.
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- For a smoother texture, mash lightly with a potato masher or blend part of the soup before serving.
- Serve hot with a dollop of mustard and a sprinkle of parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Soaking the peas overnight can reduce cooking time.
- Traditionally served with Swedish pancakes for a complete meal.
- For a non-vegetarian version, add diced ham or pork belly during cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Swedish pea soup, yellow pea soup, ärtsoppa recipe, traditional Swedish soup, vegetarian Scandinavian soup