Pea soup has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, providing both comfort and nourishment. It’s one of those timeless dishes that bring people together. And when we think about vegetarian pea soup, the simple but hearty combination of split peas, vegetables, and seasonings offers a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious.
What makes pea soup such a fan favorite is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, adding spices, herbs, or different types of vegetables. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, which makes it a go-to for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead.
In this guide, we’ll break down a flavorful vegetarian pea soup recipe, highlight some key ingredient science, offer expert cooking tips, explore variations of the recipe, and wrap up with some final thoughts.
Peas Soup Vegetarian Recipe
Vegetarian pea soup is a hearty and fulfilling dish that can be made in a variety of ways. With a base of green split peas and fresh vegetables, this soup becomes an easy, nutritious meal that’s high in fiber and protein. It’s the kind of soup that is perfect for a cozy winter day, but it’s light enough for spring too. Here’s a classic vegetarian pea soup recipe to get you started.
Ingredients Needed
This recipe calls for basic ingredients that are easy to find in most grocery stores. Each ingredient contributes to the flavor profile and overall texture of the soup.
- Split Peas – These are the star of the show. You’ll need green or yellow split peas. They break down when cooked, giving the soup its smooth, thick consistency.
- Vegetable Broth – A good, flavorful broth helps infuse the soup with richness. You can make your own vegetable broth or use store-bought options for convenience.
- Carrots – Carrots add sweetness and depth of flavor, balancing the earthiness of the peas. You can dice them or grate them for a finer texture.
- Celery – Celery brings a fresh, aromatic note and a slight crunch to the soup.
- Onion – The base of many soups, onions add a savory sweetness that creates a rich foundation for the dish.
- Garlic – A few cloves of garlic will bring out a lovely pungency and depth of flavor.
- Bay Leaves – Adds a subtle herbaceous flavor during cooking. Be sure to remove them before serving!
- Thyme – Fresh thyme is great, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch. It complements the earthy flavors of peas perfectly.
- Olive Oil – For sautéing the vegetables and enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning, making sure your soup is perfectly balanced.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve gathered the ingredients, let’s get cooking! This recipe is simple, but it results in a beautifully rich, hearty pea soup.
- Prep the Vegetables: Start by chopping your carrots, celery, and onions. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened (about 5 minutes). Then, add the carrots and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they soften a bit.
- Add Split Peas & Seasoning: Stir in the split peas, bay leaves, and thyme. Make sure everything is well mixed.
- Pour in Broth: Add 6 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, covered, for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the peas are soft and breaking apart. Stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Blend for Creaminess: Once the peas are cooked through and the soup has thickened, you can either use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot, or transfer it in batches to a regular blender. Blend until smooth, or leave it a little chunky if you prefer some texture.
- Season to Taste: Once blended, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish it with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for an extra pop of flavor.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s take a moment to dive deeper into some of the key ingredients that make this soup both nutritious and delicious:
- Split Peas: Split peas are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. A single cup of cooked split peas contains around 16 grams of protein and 16 grams of fiber, making them a great choice for vegetarians and vegans. The high fiber content also aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They’re also low in fat and packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including folate and iron.
- Vegetable Broth: The broth serves as the base, and it adds a lot of flavor. If you’re using store-bought broth, choose one with a low sodium content to avoid overpowering the soup with salt. Homemade vegetable broth is often richer and more customizable, with added benefits like reduced preservatives.
- Garlic: Known for its powerful antioxidants, garlic has been shown to have numerous health benefits, from boosting immunity to supporting heart health. It brings that unmistakable savory kick that enhances the other ingredients in the soup.
- Thyme & Bay Leaves: These herbs are not only delicious, but they also add antimicrobial properties. Bay leaves contribute a slightly floral and earthy taste, while thyme imparts an aromatic, woodsy flavor that complements the peas.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Split Peas: Older peas tend to take longer to cook and may not break down as easily. If possible, use split peas that are as fresh as you can find for the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Soaking: Although it’s not mandatory to soak split peas, it can help reduce the cooking time. Soaking for a few hours or overnight ensures they cook evenly and quickly.
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup becomes too thick as it sits, you can always add extra broth or water to loosen it up.
- Flavor Enhancers: For an added layer of flavor, stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika toward the end of cooking.
- For a Creamier Soup: After blending the soup, you can stir in a spoonful of coconut milk, heavy cream, or even cashew cream for a richer texture.
Recipe Variations
This pea soup recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Here are some ways to put your own spin on it:
- Add Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking for a burst of color and extra nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: For a spicy version, you can add a chopped chili pepper or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the soup while it simmers.
- Herb Infusions: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to give the soup a different herbal undertone. Dill is another great option for a fresh flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Try adding some smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or even a smoked vegetarian sausage for a smoky twist.
- Creamy Version: Blend a small portion of the soup with some soaked cashews for a creamy, nutty texture.
Final Words
There’s something deeply satisfying about a warm bowl of pea soup. It’s nourishing, comforting, and incredibly customizable to your tastes. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative with variations, this vegetarian pea soup can be enjoyed year-round. And with its rich, hearty nature, it’s the perfect dish to serve to guests or keep on hand for busy meals throughout the week.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For A Basic Vegetarian Peas Soup?
A basic vegetarian peas soup typically requires split peas, vegetable broth, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, olive oil, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves. You can also add potatoes for a creamier texture.
Can I Use Frozen Peas Instead Of Dried Split Peas For This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen peas instead of dried split peas, but the cooking time will be much shorter. Frozen peas typically need to be added near the end of cooking and simmered for about 5-10 minutes until tender.
Is It Necessary To Soak Split Peas Before Cooking?
Soaking split peas before cooking is not strictly necessary, as they cook relatively quickly compared to other legumes. However, soaking can help reduce cooking time and make the peas easier to digest.
How Can I Make The Soup Creamier Without Using Dairy?
To make the soup creamier without dairy, you can blend a portion of the cooked soup to create a smooth consistency. Additionally, adding potatoes during the cooking process can help thicken the soup. Alternatively, using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream can also add creaminess.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Peas Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add a variety of vegetables to the soup, such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. Root vegetables like sweet potatoes or parsnips also work well, adding both flavor and nutrition.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Vegetarian Peas Soup?
The cooking time for vegetarian peas soup can vary. If using dried split peas, the soup typically takes about 45-60 minutes to cook. If using frozen peas, the soup will cook much faster, typically 20-30 minutes.
Can I Make Peas Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Yes, both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot are excellent methods for making peas soup. In a slow cooker, it can take 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. In an Instant Pot, the soup can be ready in about 20-30 minutes, depending on whether you use dried or frozen peas.
What Spices And Seasonings Work Best In Vegetarian Peas Soup?
Common spices and seasonings for peas soup include thyme, bay leaves, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Salt and pepper are essential, but you can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar to brighten the flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers Of Vegetarian Peas Soup?
Leftover vegetarian peas soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Is Peas Soup Vegetarian Recipe Gluten-free?
Yes, the traditional vegetarian peas soup recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any wheat or gluten-based ingredients. Just be cautious if you use store-bought vegetable broth, as some may contain gluten. Opt for a gluten-free broth if necessary.