Nigella Pea And Mint Soup

I can still smell the first time I made this soup — spring sunlight filtering through the kitchen window, that gentle sweetness of peas meeting a waft of fresh mint. It took me right back to my nan’s allotment, where we’d pod peas into a chipped enamel bowl, the mint growing wild and rampant along the fence. Nigella’s pea and mint soup isn’t just a recipe — it’s a memory in a bowl. Light yet filling, delicate but hearty, and utterly British in its gentle charm.

And yes, the mashed potatoes give it that cozy, comforting thickness — like a knitted jumper for your tastebuds.

Whether you’re hunting for a fast lunch or something that soothes on a grey day, this soup delivers. And bonus: it comes together in 30 minutes, tops.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup mashed potatoes — adds body and creaminess; great way to use up leftovers.
• 1½ cups frozen peas — sweet, vibrant, and always in the freezer.
• 1 cup milk — whole milk gives a creamier finish, but any milk will work.
• 1 cup chicken broth — or veg broth if you’re going meat-free.
• 2 teaspoons fresh mint — or 1 tsp dried if you must, but the fresh is magic.
• 1 teaspoon butter — just enough for richness.
• ½ clove garlic (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
• Basil olive oil (a drizzle) — trust me, this lift at the end makes the whole thing sing.
• Croutons — for crunch, because soup deserves texture.

How to Make It (Instructions)

1. Cook the peas.
   Pop them in a small pan with just enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then simmer 3–4 minutes until tender. Drain.
2. Combine everything else.
   In a larger saucepan, add the peas, mashed potatoes, milk, broth, mint, butter, and garlic.
3. Warm it gently.
   Medium heat. No boiling — just a nice mellow warmth. Stir occasionally. Should take around 5–7 minutes.
4. Blend.
   Use an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender). Blend until silky. I always forget to take the pot off the heat first — don’t do what I do. Safety first.
5. Adjust.
   Too thick? Add more milk or broth. Taste it — maybe it wants more mint, maybe a pinch of salt.
6. Serve.
   Pour into bowls, swirl on basil olive oil, toss over croutons. Eat immediately while it’s still sigh-worthy.

Common Mistakes

Why does my soup taste flat?
You probably didn’t add enough salt or mint. Even peas need seasoning love.

Why is it grainy?
Most likely under-blended. Go longer with the blender — it should be velvety, not gritty.

Can I use raw peas?
Fresh peas are fab but need a slightly longer simmer. Don’t skip the cook time or they won’t blend smoothly.

Why is the garlic overpowering?
Been there — even half a clove raw can take over. Use roasted garlic or garlic powder for a gentler touch.

Why is it too thick?
Too much mashed potato. I’ve done this in a rush and ended up with green mash. Add broth to fix it.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely and store in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Ladle into freezer-safe tubs. Leave space for expansion. Keeps well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating:
  • Stovetop: Low heat, stir often. Add a splash of milk if needed.
  • Microwave: Heat in bursts, stirring between each round.
  • Air fryer: Not for this one. Let’s not get weird.

What to Serve With It

• Crusty bread — for dipping and mopping, of course.
• Goat’s cheese toastie — creamy tang meets minty green? Yes please.
• Lemon-dressed rocket salad — adds a peppery bite that contrasts beautifully.

FAQ Section

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely — just skip the croutons or use gluten-free ones. The soup itself is naturally gluten-free.

Is this soup vegan?
Swap the butter for olive oil, use plant-based milk and veggie broth. You’ll still get all the flavour.

Can I prep this in advance?
Yes, and it reheats beautifully. In fact, the mint flavour deepens after a day.

What if I don’t have mashed potatoes?
Use a peeled boiled potato blended in — or add a handful of cooked rice for texture instead.

Try More Recipes:

• Nigella Rhubarb Flapjacks Recipe
• Nigella Prawn And Mango Curry
• Nigella Watermelon And Feta Salad
• Nigella Coca Cola Cake