Pea Soup with Croutons and Bacon
Pea Soup with Croutons and Bacon is a hearty, comforting soup made from puréed green or yellow peas, typically flavored with smoked bacon or ham and served with crispy croutons. It's a staple in many European cuisines, particularly in France (where it's known as *soupe aux pois*) and the Netherlands (*erwtensoep*), often enjoyed during colder months.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a good source of plant-based protein and fiber from the peas, with added fat and protein from the bacon. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) ranges from 250-350 calories, depending on the amount of bacon and cream used.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 22 g |
| Fat | 9 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 450 IU |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 60 mg |
| Vitamin K | 25 mcg |
| Folate | 65 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, pea soup has been a peasant food for centuries due to the affordability and storability of dried peas, making it a symbol of rustic, nourishing cooking. Nutritionally, the combination of protein and fiber from peas with the fat from bacon creates a satisfying meal that provides sustained energy.
