Finnish Dried Pea Soup (Hernekeitto – Finland)

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 2

Traditional and Hearty Finnish Dried Pea Soup Recipe

Finnish Dried Pea Soup (Hernekeitto – Finland)

by The Chefin Soup

Prep

12 hours

Cook

2 hours

Ready In

14 hours

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

6-8

Calories

400

Sugar

Fat

15g

Hernekeitto, also known as Finnish pea soup, is a traditional Finnish dish served on Thursday evenings at homes and in restaurants. The soup is so much a part of Finnish culture that it is even eaten on army bases on Thursdays. The soup is made with whole peas and served with rye bread, often accompanied by a Finnish beer. This recipe is typically prepared with smoked ham, onion, and dried marjoram, which give the soup its distinct smoky flavor. The soup is not only delicious and satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. Do give this recipe a try if you want to discover one of Finland's most enjoyed dishes.

Instructions

1.	Rinse the dried peas in a sieve and let them soak in cold water for at least 12 hours or overnight.
2.	Once the peas have soaked, drain them and transfer them to a large pot with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
3.	Add the whole smoked ham, onion (studded with 2 cloves), and dried marjoram to the pot. Let it simmer uncovered for 1.5 to 2 hours until the ham is tender and the peas are soft.
4.	Remove the ham and let it cool. Once cooled, remove the bone and dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
5.	Remove the onion and cloves from the pot. Add salt to taste.
6.	Mash the peas to form a thick soup. Add the diced ham back into the pot and stir. Heat through and serve hot.

PROS

This Finnish pea soup is the ultimate comfort food and perfect for chilly days.
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, it is a rich and filling meal that is easy to make.

The soup is also a good source of protein and fiber, making it a nutritious meal option.

CONS

The recipe calls for smoked ham, which can be high in salt and sodium.
As the soup contains peas, it may not be suitable for those with legume allergies.
The soup is also quite thick and might not be liked by everyone.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

The Finnish Pea Soup is a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Being made of whole green peas, it is considered a low-fat food, perfect for those who are concerned about their diet. Peas are known to support heart health, improve digestion, and help regulate blood sugar levels. The smoked ham contains protein while also being a source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

	8 cups water
	1 lb dried whole green peas
	1 lb smoked ham ( one large piece with bone )
	1 teaspoon dried marjoram
	1 onion
	2 cloves
	1 -2 teaspoon salt