Zöldborsóleves (Hungarian Green Pea Soup)

Ingredients (serves 4–6):

• 500 g (1 lb) fresh or frozen green peas
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 parsnip, diced (optional)
• 1 small potato, diced
• 2 tbsp butter or oil
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to enhance pea sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–2 tbsp sour cream (for serving)
• Optional: small pasta or semolina dumplings (grízgaluska)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, melt butter and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add carrots, parsnip, and potato. Cook 2–3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Simmer 10–15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Add green peas and sugar (if using). Cook another 5–10 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper. If desired, add small pasta or semolina dumplings and cook until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream.