SOUP FOR WINTERS

 WINTER IS मटर .There is no end to use of peas-मटर पनीर,आलू मटर, सूखी मटर, मटर परांठा , मटर कचोरी- The list is endless. I also love peas in soup form, but I find it heavy as it requires cream. I wanted to make a healthier version- so I tried no. of recipes. Then I did hit upon a very unusual combination - PEAS AND PUDINA. The amalgamation of two is unique, as mint lends soft aromatic notes to sweetness of peas.This recipe is a sure winner-TRY IT! 

MINTY PEA SOUP                

INGREDIENTS ( for 2 bowls)

1. Shelled peas-1 cup
2. Fresh mint leaves- 1/3 cup
3. Onion, chopped-1no
4. Garlic,- 2 cloves
5. Ginger, chopped- 1/2 inch piece
6. Lemon grass- Lower white bulb-1no
7. Bay leaf-1no. 
8. Butter or oil-1tsp
9. Vegetable stock or water- 2 glasses
10. Salt and pepper -to taste
11. Chopped Green stalks of spring onion-to garnish
12. Mint sprig - to garnish

METHOD

1. Heat butter/oil in a sauce pan .Add ginger, garlic and onion  and saute till onions are translucent.
2. Add shelled peas and saute for 2-3 minutes.
3. Add mint leaves ,lemon grass and vegetable stock/water.Boil till peas are tender.
4. Cool and then blend to a puree in a liquidizer.
5. Strain in a saucepan and boil again with bay leaf and seasonings.
6. Pour in soup bowls and serve garnished with chopped spring onion greens and mint sprig.
7. Serve lemon on the side or squeeze a little lemon juice just before serving. 

This soup is very filling and is a complete meal in itself. You just require a crusty bread with it. Added to this it is highly nutritious. GO AHEAD!