Split pea soup is a classic, hearty dish that offers comfort in every spoonful. This vegan and meat-free version focuses on the rich flavors of split peas, vegetables, and seasonings. This recipe offers a simple, wholesome option that’s perfect for those looking for a plant-based meal, while still delivering the same satisfying taste and texture that split pea soup is known for.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to making soups, this recipe will guide you through the steps to create a nourishing, flavorful, and filling split pea soup that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this simple, vegan split pea soup:
For the Soup:
- 1 cup dried green split peas (rinsed and sorted)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 medium carrots (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. The onion will create a savory foundation for the soup. Once the onion is softened, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Continue sautéing for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender and fragrant.
2. Add the Split Peas and Seasonings
Now, add the rinsed split peas to the pot, along with the dried thyme and bay leaf. Stir the mixture well to combine the peas and seasonings with the sautéed vegetables. This will help infuse the peas with the delicious flavors from the vegetables and herbs.
3. Pour in the Broth
After combining the peas and seasonings, pour in the vegetable broth (or water if you prefer a lighter broth). Make sure all the ingredients are covered with the liquid. Stir to ensure everything is mixed well and the split peas are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot with a lid. Let the soup simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and have started to break down. Stir occasionally to ensure the peas don’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If the soup thickens too much as it cooks, feel free to add more broth or water to maintain your desired consistency.
5. Season and Serve
Once the split peas are fully cooked and the soup has thickened to your liking, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup until creamy, or leave the soup chunky if you prefer more texture. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty, meat-free split pea soup!
Tips for Perfect Split Pea Soup
- Adjusting the Texture: If you want a creamier texture, you can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender, or mash it with a potato masher. You can also use a standard blender, but make sure the soup cools slightly before blending to prevent splashing.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables. You can add potatoes for extra heartiness, spinach or kale for more nutrients, or even some diced tomatoes for added flavor.
- Simmering Time: The cooking time can vary depending on the age of the split peas. If you find that the peas aren’t tender after the suggested time, just continue simmering the soup until they break down completely.
- Make Ahead: Split pea soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store the soup in an airtight container to preserve its freshness. If you plan to freeze it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat the soup on the stove and add a little more broth or water to thin it if necessary.
Variations
If you’d like to add more flavors or alter the soup to suit your preferences, here are a few variations to consider:
Split Pea Soup with Potatoes
For a richer, heartier version of split pea soup, try adding diced potatoes. They’ll break down and thicken the soup as it cooks, creating a creamier texture. Potatoes also add more substance to the soup, making it even more filling.
Split Pea Soup with Spinach
To increase the nutritional value, try adding fresh spinach to the soup. Stir the spinach into the soup toward the end of the cooking process, just before serving. The spinach will wilt and integrate into the soup, adding a touch of green and extra vitamins.
Split Pea Soup with Tomatoes
For a tangy twist, you can add diced tomatoes to the soup. They’ll provide a nice balance to the earthiness of the peas and enhance the overall flavor. Add the tomatoes with the broth and let them cook along with the other ingredients.
Split Pea Soup with Lemon
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end of cooking can brighten up the flavors of split pea soup. It adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the peas and vegetables. You can also garnish the soup with lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.
FAQ
1. Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes, yellow split peas can be used instead of green. Yellow split peas have a slightly milder flavor, but they cook similarly to green peas and will create a similar hearty soup.
2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, split pea soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the split peas, broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the peas are tender.
3. Can I freeze split pea soup?
Yes, split pea soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave, adding more broth or water if necessary.
4. How do I make the soup creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. This will give the soup a smooth, velvety texture. You can also use a regular blender, but let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid any splashing.
5. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this split pea soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that you use gluten-free vegetable broth if needed.
Conclusion
Split pea soup is a simple and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal, no matter the season. Thanks to the hearty split peas, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s a nutritious, plant-based option that’s packed with fiber and protein, making it a satisfying choice for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. This recipe is customizable, so feel free to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
Enjoy this nourishing soup, whether you’re making it for a family meal, a special occasion, or just as a comforting bowl to enjoy by yourself. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this split pea soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.