Traditional Hungarian Pea Soup Recipe with Dumplings or Store-Bought Noodles

Easy, quick and taste amazing: Hungarian Pea soup

Hungarians have a deep love for soups—they’re an essential part of our meals and a cherished tradition in every household. Whether it’s a simple broth or a hearty vegetable-packed soup, there’s always a comforting bowl waiting at the table.

This traditional Hungarian pea soup is a timeless favorite, one that my mother often made for us with homemade dumplings or csipetke (pinched noodles). It’s a dish that brings back fond memories of family dinners and cozy evenings.

If you’re short on time, don’t worry—store-bought noodles work just as well and make this recipe even quicker to prepare. This pea soup is perfect for any day of the week: it’s light, nourishing, and brimming with fresh flavors.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6):

• 2 tbsp oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds

• 2 parsnips, sliced into rounds

• ¼ celery root, diced

• 2 ½ liters vegetable broth

• 400 g green peas

• 300 g store-bought dumplings or noodles (csipetke if homemade)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions to make the Hungarian pea soup and dumplings:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté the finely chopped onion until translucent. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Add the sliced carrots, parsnips, and diced celery root. Stir and cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Let it simmer until the vegetables are nearly cooked through.

4. Add the green peas and the dumplings or noodles to the soup. If you’re using homemade csipetke, prepare the dough by mixing one egg with flour and a pinch of salt, then pinch off small pieces to add to the boiling soup.

5. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the dumplings or noodles to cook through.

6. Finish with a splash of lemon juice, a pinch of sugar, and adjust the salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

   
   
   
   

Why This Recipe Is Special:

This Hungarian pea soup is simple yet full of flavor. The combination of sweet peas, hearty vegetables, and tender dumplings creates a dish that’s light but satisfying. It’s an excellent option for a quick lunch or a first course at dinner, and the recipe can easily be adjusted to your taste or available ingredients.

Whether you use homemade dumplings or store-bought noodles, this Hungarian pea soup is a comforting reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly special.

I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your family as much as I have. Don’t forget to tag me on Instagram or Facebook if you try it out—I’d love to see your creations! And if you have your own version of this soup, share it in the comments below.

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