Let’s talk about comfort in a bowl-split pea soup. This classic dish has been warming kitchens and hearts for centuries, and the best part? You don’t need meat to make it soul-satisfying. It’s thick, creamy, and brimming with wholesome flavors, yet it’s incredibly simple to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a hearty lunch, a cozy dinner, or something to meal prep for the week, vegetarian split pea soup hits all the right notes.
Why it’s a star in the vegetarian world:
- Protein-packed: Split peas are a fantastic plant-based protein source.
- Fiber-rich: They keep you full longer and support digestion.
- Flavor-friendly: The natural earthiness of peas pairs beautifully with herbs and vegetables.
This recipe is approachable even for beginners but has enough depth to satisfy seasoned cooks who love to play with flavors.
Simple Split Pea Soup Vegetarian Recipe
This isn’t just a recipe-it’s a blueprint for creating a soup that’s both simple and deeply nourishing. Think of it as your canvas: a comforting base of split peas, aromatics, and vegetables, ready for you to make it your own.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this soup sing:
- Split peas: 1 cup (green or yellow, rinsed and sorted)
- Vegetable broth: 4 cups (or water with a vegetable bouillon cube)
- Carrots: 2 medium, diced
- Celery stalks: 2, diced
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Olive oil: 1-2 tablespoons
- Bay leaf: 1
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon (fresh or dried)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika, parsley, or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness
Cooking Instructions
Cooking this soup is like a cozy dance-you sauté, simmer, and watch everything meld into something magical.
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Prepare Your Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic for the last minute to avoid burning.
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Add Your Peas And Liquids
- Toss in the rinsed split peas.
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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Simmer And Stir
- Let the soup simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- The peas will break down, thickening the soup naturally.
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Final Touches
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Season with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika.
- If you like a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to purée part or all of the soup.
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Serve
- Ladle into bowls, drizzle with a little olive oil or sprinkle fresh parsley.
- Pair with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort experience.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Here’s where the magic of split pea soup goes beyond taste:
- Split peas: High in protein (16g per cup) and fiber (16g per cup), which help stabilize blood sugar and keep you full.
- Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, which your body converts to vitamin A for healthy vision.
- Celery: Contains antioxidants and compounds that support heart health.
- Garlic and onion: Both contain allicin and quercetin-natural compounds known for anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting properties.
- Thyme and bay leaf: Add aromatic complexity and subtle antibacterial benefits.
In short, every spoonful is not just comfort-it’s a tiny health boost.
Expert Tips
- Rinse your peas: Always rinse and sort to remove debris or small stones.
- Stir occasionally: Prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Consistency control: Want it thicker? Cook a bit longer; thinner? Add more broth.
- Flavor depth: Sautéing veggies first brings out natural sweetness.
- Time-saver: Use a pressure cooker to reduce cooking time by half.
Recipe Variations
- Smoky flavor: Add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke.
- Herb twist: Swap thyme for rosemary or add fresh dill at the end.
- Creamy delight: Stir in coconut milk or a dollop of yogurt before serving.
- Veggie-packed: Toss in diced potatoes, zucchini, or spinach near the end of cooking.
Final Words
Vegetarian split pea soup is proof that simplicity can be delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you get a hearty, healthy, and utterly satisfying meal. It’s a recipe that welcomes creativity, yet always delivers classic comfort.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Simple Split Pea Soup Vegetarian Recipe?
To make a simple split pea soup vegetarian recipe, you will need split peas, vegetable broth, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Optional ingredients can include potatoes or spinach for added flavor.
Can I Use Dried Split Peas For This Recipe?
Yes, dried split peas are typically used in split pea soup recipes. They need to be rinsed and sorted before cooking, but they do not require soaking overnight.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Split Pea Soup?
Cooking time for split pea soup usually takes about 45 to 60 minutes. If using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, it can be done in about 25 minutes.
Is It Necessary To Use Vegetable Broth For A Vegetarian Split Pea Soup?
While vegetable broth is ideal for keeping the soup vegetarian, you can also use water or a combination of water and vegetable bouillon cubes if vegetable broth is unavailable.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Split Pea Soup?
Yes, you can customize the soup by adding other vegetables like potatoes, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just be sure to adjust cooking times for the added ingredients.
Is Split Pea Soup Gluten-free?
Yes, a simple vegetarian split pea soup is naturally gluten-free, as it only contains legumes, vegetables, and broth. Ensure that any broth or seasoning used is labeled gluten-free if needed.
Can I Freeze Split Pea Soup?
Yes, split pea soup freezes very well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing. It can be stored for up to 3 months.
What Is The Best Way To Store Leftover Split Pea Soup?
Leftover split pea soup should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If frozen, it can last for up to 3 months.
How Can I Make The Split Pea Soup Thicker?
To thicken split pea soup, you can either let it simmer for a longer time to reduce the liquid or use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. You can also add more split peas to the cooking process.
Can I Make This Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot are excellent methods for making split pea soup. In a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. In an Instant Pot, cook on high pressure for 15-20 minutes.