01 - Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until softened but not browned.
02 - Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
03 - Add the peas to the saucepan and cook for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
04 - Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 8–10 minutes until the peas are completely tender.
05 - Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the fresh mint leaves and let steep briefly.
06 - Using an immersion blender (or transferring to a countertop blender in batches), purée the soup until completely smooth and velvety.
07 - Return the soup to the pan if necessary. Stir in the milk and crème fraîche. Gently reheat over low heat without boiling. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
08 - Ladle the hot soup into serving bowls. Create a swirl of extra crème fraîche on top and finish with fresh mint leaves and a grind of black pepper.