GARDEN PEA & MINT SOUP

A fresh and tasty soup that would be ideal for a dinner party.

"Just a small portion of this soup will be enough – it is a delicious way to begin a dinner party. Sometimes, I use smoked bacon or wild garlic instead of the fresh mint to flavour the soup."

INGREDIENTS:

25 g (2 tbsp) butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1 potato, cut into small pieces
450 g (3 cups) fresh or frozen peas
salt and black pepper
700 ml (3 cups) chicken or vegetable stock
125 ml pouring (light) cream
2 tblsp chopped mint

METHOD:

Put the butter into a saucepan and saute the onion, garlic and potato until lightly browned.

Throw the peas into the pot and mix them around for a moment until they are lightly glazed with the butter mixture. Add in a pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper at this stage.

Next, pour in the chicken stock and pouring cream and bring the mixture to a rapid boil. Then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the peas have softened, yet still retain their green colour. Add in the mint and mix well.

Blitz the mixture to a smooth consistency using a handheld blender or in a food processor (in batches if necessary).

Return the soup to the heat, adjust the seasoning and reheat gently. Serve immediately with some crusty bread.