I remember loving this soup in my childhood, even though at the time I claimed to hate all soup. It’s the kind of soup that kids just can’t seem to resist…

#### Instructions:

1. **Sauté the Veggies**: In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.

2. **Add the Broth**: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. If you’re using chicken, add it in at this point.

3. **Stir in the Peas**: If you’re adding peas, toss them in and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes until they are heated through.

4. **Make it Creamy**: Stir in the heavy cream or milk for that smooth, creamy texture. Adjust the consistency with more broth if needed, depending on how thick you prefer your soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. **Simmer and Serve**: Let the soup simmer on low for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you like, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving for a burst of color and flavor.

6. **Enjoy**: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with some crusty bread for dipping or a side salad for a full meal. Enjoy the comforting, heartwarming soup that’s sure to win over even the most stubborn of soup skeptics!

### Tips for Making the Best Kid-Friendly Soup:

– **Customize the Veggies**: You can add or swap out vegetables based on what your kids like. Sweet corn, green beans, or squash are great additions to this soup.
– **Go Creamy or Brothy**: Depending on your preference (and your kids’ tastes), you can make the soup richer and creamier with more cream or keep it more brothy with just the vegetables and broth.
– **Make it Your Own**: Add some shredded cheese or crumbled crackers for extra texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle a little Parmesan on top for a savory finish.
– **Freeze for Later**: This soup freezes wonderfully, so you can make a large batch and store it in individual portions for later. It’s a great meal prep option for busy nights.

### Conclusion: A Soup That Lasts a Lifetime

This **comforting soup** isn’t just a dish; it’s a reminder of simpler times, of sitting at the dinner table with loved ones, and of a warm bowl of food that could lift your spirits. Despite my childhood claims of hating all soups, this one was always an exception—and it’s easy to see why. The combination of simple, fresh ingredients, a creamy texture, and comforting flavors makes it the kind of soup that everyone loves, even if they’re reluctant at first.

Whether you’re making it for your own family or sharing it with friends, this soup is sure to bring warmth, comfort, and smiles. It’s the kind of dish that sticks with you—just like the memories of childhood meals enjoyed with those you love.