Consommé with Green Peas Royale and Herb Dumplings

This exquisite dish combines the clarity of consommé with the creamy richness of green peas royale, complemented by the light and flavorful herb dumplings. It’s a sophisticated yet comforting meal that’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to treat yourself and a loved one to something truly delightful. Enjoy the culinary experience!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 1 hour Servings: 2.

Equipment

• Large stockpot
• Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Large bowl
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Ladle
• Skimmer

Ingredients

For the Consommé

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

For the Green Peas Royale

• 1 cup green peas, fresh or frozen
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (use coconut cream for vegan version)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Herb Dumplings

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cubed (use vegan butter for vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
• 3-4 tablespoons milk (use non-dairy milk for vegan version)

Preparation

1. Prepare the Consommé:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and translucent.
   • Add the vegetable broth, green peas, fresh thyme sprigs, and bay leaves to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop and the broth to reduce slightly.
   • Once the consommé is done, remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Keep the consommé warm while you prepare the other components.
2. Make the Green Peas Royale:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the green peas and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the peas are tender.
   • Transfer the cooked peas and broth to a blender or food processor. Add the heavy cream (or coconut cream for a vegan version) and blend until smooth and creamy.
   • Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside and keep warm until ready to serve.
3. Prepare the Herb Dumplings:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
   • Add the chilled and cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Stir in the finely chopped fresh parsley and chives until evenly distributed.
   • Gradually add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently with a fork until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
   • Divide the dough into 4 equal portions and shape them into small dumplings using your hands. Set aside.
4. Cook the Herb Dumplings:
   • Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
   • Carefully drop the herb dumplings into the simmering water and cook for 10-12 minutes until they are puffed up and cooked through. They will float to the surface when done.
   • Once cooked, remove the dumplings from the water using a slotted spoon and drain them on a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
5. Assemble and Serve:
   • To serve, ladle the warm consommé into bowls, dividing it evenly between two serving bowls.
   • Carefully spoon a dollop of the green peas royale into the center of each bowl of consommé.
   • Place one or two herb dumplings on top of the green peas royale in each bowl.
   • Garnish the consommé with chopped fresh parsley for added freshness and color.
   • Serve immediately, allowing your guests to enjoy the delicate flavors and textures of the consommé with green peas royale and herb dumplings.