Welcome to the culinary delights of the Åland Islands, where traditional flavors and local ingredients come together in harmony. In this recipe, we'll explore the art of creating Aland Hernekeitto, a delightful pea soup infused with the aromatic essence of dill. Originating from the picturesque Åland archipelago, this dish not only satisfies the palate but also offers a taste of the rich culinary heritage of these Baltic Sea islands.

Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the steps of preparing Aland Hernekeitto. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking enthusiast, this recipe promises a hearty and comforting bowl of soup that captures the essence of Åland's gastronomic tradition. Let's gather our ingredients and embark on a flavorful adventure with this iconic dish!

Here's a recipe for Aland Hernekeitto:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green peas, soaked overnight
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 leek, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• Sour cream or crème fraîche for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Peas:Rinse the soaked peas thoroughly and drain them.

Sauté Aromatics:

1-In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2-Add chopped onions, leeks, and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Add Vegetables:Stir in carrots, potatoes, and bay leaf. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Cook the Peas:

1-Add the soaked peas to the pot and mix well with the vegetables.

2-Pour in the broth, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer:Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 45-60 minutes or until the peas are tender.

Season:Season the soup with thyme, salt, and pepper according to your taste.

Finish with Dill:Stir in fresh dill and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to infuse the soup with the dill's aromatic flavor.

Optional Enrichment:For added richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter.

Serve:

1-Remove the bay leaf before serving.

2-Ladle the hot Aland Hernekeitto into bowls.

3-Garnish with additional fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche if desired.

Enjoy:Serve this flavorful Åland pea soup hot, and savor the unique taste of Aland Hernekeitto, a comforting dish from the Åland Islands.

This recipe captures the essence of the traditional Aland Hernekeitto, providing a warm and nourishing experience that reflects the culinary heritage of the Åland archipelago.

Nutritional Values:

Providing exact nutritional values can be challenging as they may vary based on specific brands, sizes, and preparation methods. However, I can offer approximate values for some of the ingredients:

Dried Green Peas (1 cup, soaked overnight):

• Calories: 200
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 1g

benefits: Rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Peas also contain antioxidants and may support heart health.

Onion (1 large, finely chopped):

• Calories: 60
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Onions are low in calories and high in antioxidants. They contain anti-inflammatory compounds and may contribute to heart health.

Carrots (2 medium, diced):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, promoting eye health. They also provide fiber and antioxidants.

Potatoes (2 medium, peeled and diced):

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin C. They provide energy and support immune function.

Leek (1 medium, thinly sliced):

• Calories: 50
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Leeks are low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They contribute to bone health and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced):

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Garlic has numerous health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It may also support heart health and boost the immune system.

Bay Leaf (1):

• Negligible caloric value (used for flavoring)

benefits: Bay leaves add a distinctive flavor and aroma to dishes. While not a significant source of nutrients, they are believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon):

• Negligible caloric value (used for flavoring)

benefits: Thyme is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also have antimicrobial effects and contribute to respiratory health.

Fresh Dill (1 tablespoon, chopped):

• Calories: 0
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits: Dill is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It may aid digestion, provide anti-inflammatory benefits, and contribute to bone health.

Vegetable or Chicken Broth (6 cups):

• Calories: Approximately 30-50 per cup (varies by brand)

benefits: Broth provides hydration and adds flavor to the soup. Depending on the type, it may also contain essential nutrients and electrolytes.

Olive Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 28g

benefits: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. It may support heart health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to overall well-being.

Butter (1 tablespoon, optional):

• Calories: 100
• Protein: 0g
• Fiber: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 12g

benefits: Butter adds richness and flavor. While it is high in saturated fats, it also contains fat-soluble vitamins like A and E.

Sour Cream or Crème Fraîche for serving (optional):

• Calories: Varies, typically 30-50 calories per tablespoon

benefits: Sour cream or crème fraîche adds creaminess to the soup. While they are high in fat, they also provide some calcium and may enhance the flavor of the dish.

Please note that these values are rough estimates and may vary based on specific brands and preparation methods. For more accurate nutritional information, you may want to refer to the nutritional labels on the specific products you use.