Hiilsenfruchtsuppe - Fresh Pea Soup Recipe

Since pea soup is very popular in German homes The Kitchen Mouse is substituting his favorite French recipe for Potage St. Germaine (puree of fresh pea soup). This will serve eight people and is guaranteed to get you plenty of compliments.

Ingredients:
4 cups fresh or frozen peas
2 stalks celery, diced
2 small carrots, diced
2 small white onions, diced
4-1/2 cups chicken broth
1/3 lb. boiled ham, diced
Salt to taste
1/3 t. black pepper
3 T. unsalted butter or margarine
1-1/4 cup cream or half and half
2 T. chopped parsley

Step 1. Simmer the peas, celery, onions and carrots together in 1-1/2 cups of chicken broth until tender, about 50 minutes.

Step 2. Add remaining chicken broth and ham and simmer 10 minutes.

Step 3. Puree all ingredients in a blender. Return soup to pot and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 4. At serving time, heat the puree and stir in the butter and cream. Serve in heated bowls. Sprinkle with parsley and a few croutons, if desired.