Creamy Potato and Pea Chowder

Potato and Pea Chowder

The aroma of a steaming bowl of potato and pea chowder can make anyone feel cozy and content. Imagine the creamy texture wrapping around every spoonful, with the gentle sweetness of peas playing a delightful harmony with tender potatoes. This is not just any soup; it’s like a warm hug from Grandma on a winter’s day.

I still remember the first time I attempted this recipe during one of those β€œwhat do I cook tonight?” crises. My friends showed up unexpectedly, and in true culinary superhero style, I whipped this creamy wonder together. It was an instant hit! Perfect for chilly evenings or as a light lunch that even picky eaters will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This potato and pea chowder offers incredible flavor with minimal effort
  • It’s visually appealing with vibrant greens against creamy whites
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or proteins
  • Ideal for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat

Everyone at my dinner table couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it wasβ€”my kids even asked for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Potatoes: Use Yukon gold or russet potatoes for their creamy texture once cooked.
  • Fresh Peas: Sweet garden peas bring vibrant color and flavor; frozen peas work just as well for convenience.
  • Onion: A medium-sized onion adds depth; make sure to dice it fine for the best results.
  • Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic kick; you can adjust based on your love for garlic.
  • Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control over the saltiness while enhancing flavors.
  • Cream: Heavy cream provides that luxurious richness; substitute with half-and-half if you’re feeling lighter.
  • Butter: A couple of tablespoons of butter will help sautΓ© the onions to golden perfection.
  • Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf are essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

**Prep Your Ingredients**: Start by washing your potatoes thoroughly; peel them if you prefer. Chop them into bite-sized cubes while envisioning their transformation into creamy goodness.

**SautΓ© Onions and Garlic**: In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Add diced onions and cook until they turn translucent (about 5 minutes), then toss in minced garlic until fragrant.

**Add Potatoes and Broth**: Stir in those chopped potatoes along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing to simmerβ€”let it bubble away until the potatoes are tender (around 15 minutes).

**Incorporate Peas**: Once your potatoes are soft enough to pierce easily with a fork, add fresh or frozen peas into the pot. Simmer for another 5 minutes until peas are tender but still bright green.

**Blend for Creaminess**: Using an immersion blender (or carefully transferring batches to a regular blender), blend the mixture until smooth while leaving some chunks for textureβ€”this is where magic happens!

**Finish with Cream and Seasoning**: Return your soup to low heat; stir in heavy cream along with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Let it warm through (about 5 more minutes) before serving hot.

Now you have a delightful bowl of potato and pea chowder that will warm heartsβ€”and bellies! Enjoy this dish on its own or paired with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal experience!

You Must Know

  • This delightful potato and pea chowder is creamy, comforting, and perfect for any occasion
  • The blend of flavors creates a warm hug in a bowl, making it a family favorite
  • Its versatility allows for endless variations, so feel free to experiment with ingredients

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautΓ©ing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced potatoes and peas to cook through. Pour in vegetable broth simmering until tender for the perfect texture.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Customize your chowder by adding herbs like thyme or basil, or even throw in some leftover cooked bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store the chowder in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To achieve a silky texture, use an immersion blender to purΓ©e part of the chowder
  • Adding cream at the end gives a rich finish
  • Adjust seasoning to taste for maximum flavor impact

There’s nothing quite like hearing my friends rave about this chowder during chilly evenings; it always brings us together over laughter and second helpings.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I make potato and pea chowder vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and coconut milk instead of cream for a delicious vegan version.

How do I thicken my chowder?

For a thicker texture, you can puree some of the soup or add more potatoes.

Can I freeze potato and pea chowder?

Yes! Freeze it in individual portions for easy meals later; just stir well when reheating.

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Potato and Pea Chowder

Creamy Potato and Pea Chowder


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  • Author: Liza Hammilton
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 servings

Description

Warm up with this creamy potato and pea chowder, blending tender potatoes and sweet peas in a luscious broth. Perfect for chilly nights or cozy gatherings.


Ingredients

  • Yukon gold or russet potatoes
  • Fresh or frozen peas
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Low-sodium vegetable broth
  • Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • Butter
  • Seasonings (salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf)

Instructions

  1. Wash and cube the potatoes.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add cubed potatoes and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer until potatoes are tender (approximately 15 minutes).
  4. Stir in fresh or frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Blend the mixture until smooth while retaining some chunks for texture.
  6. Return to low heat, mix in heavy cream and seasonings, warming through for about 5 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg

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Liza Hamilton

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Liza Hamilton! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I discovered my love for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I’ve traveled across the country exploring flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion projectβ€”a place to share delicious recipes that bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Liza