Hernekeitto (Finnish Thursday Green Pea & Mustard Soup) – Authentic Finland Recipe

Ingredients for Hernekeitto (Finnish Thursday Green Pea & Mustard Soup) (4 Servings)

• 1.25 lbs (or 2.5 cups) dried or tender green peas, prepped into bite-sized pieces
• 1.5 cups diced carrots and onions, washed and trimmed
• 1 cup dark rye bread
• 1 medium onion and 3 cloves garlic, finely minced with rubbed marjoram
• 1.5 tbsp traditional Finland seasoning (sweet Finnish mustard swirled in, black pepper)
• 2.5 cups rich culinary stock or aromatic cooking liquid, plus 2 tbsp cooking oil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Warm cooking oil in a heavy pot over medium heat; gently sweat the minced onion, garlic, and rubbed marjoram for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Stir in sweet Finnish mustard swirled in, black pepper and toast for 45 seconds to release the essential oils of Finland's kitchen.
3. Add dried or tender green peas and diced carrots and onions, tossing to coat in the aromatic base.
4. Pour in the stock, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until tender and deeply flavorful.
5. Fold in dark rye bread, adjust seasoning, and ladle steaming hot into deep bowls.