There’s nothing quite as comforting on a chilly day as a warm bowl of hearty soup. The All Recipes.com Vegetarian Split Pea Soup is a delightful and nourishing option for vegetarians and soup lovers alike.
This recipe combines the natural earthiness of split peas with savory vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a thick, creamy, and satisfying dish without the need for any meat or dairy additions. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or prepping lunches for the week, this soup promises both flavor and nutrition in every spoonful.
What’s truly fantastic about this recipe is how simple it is to prepare, yet how rich and complex the flavors become after slow simmering. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a comforting classic in a vegetarian-friendly way.
Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, making it an easy go-to recipe for busy weeknights. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the ingredients, equipment, step-by-step instructions, and share some tips and variations to make this soup your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian split pea soup is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it is incredibly nutritious, packed with protein and fiber from the split peas, helping you feel full and energized.
The recipe is low in fat and free from any animal products, making it suitable for vegans as well.
Secondly, it’s budget-friendly and uses simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have. The soup also freezes well, so it’s excellent for meal prepping or saving leftovers.
Finally, the flavor is unbeatable. The slow-cooked peas turn tender and creamy, while the vegetables add layers of sweetness and texture.
Aromatic herbs bring it all together, making this soup both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle (for serving)
- Blender or immersion blender (optional, for a smoother soup)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Start by rinsing the dried split peas under cold water, removing any debris. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato into bite-sized pieces.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they are soft and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, and potato to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add split peas and broth: Pour in the rinsed split peas and vegetable broth. Stir to combine everything evenly.
- Season the soup: Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, keeping in mind you can adjust seasoning later.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 60 to 75 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust texture (optional): For a creamier consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend part or all of the soup. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, puree, and return it to the pot.
- Final seasoning: Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika if using. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve warm: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy immediately!
Tips & Variations
“For an even richer flavor, roast the vegetables in the oven before adding them to the pot.”
If you prefer a chunkier soup, skip blending and leave all the veggies intact. For a smoother, creamier texture, blend the soup halfway through or at the end as described above.
Feel free to experiment with herbs like rosemary or marjoram for a different flavor profile. Adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar at the end can brighten the soup’s taste.
To make this soup gluten-free, verify that your vegetable broth contains no gluten additives. For extra protein, toss in some cooked lentils or quinoa during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
If you want to explore more hearty vegetarian and vegan soups, check out the Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes or try a warming Zucchini Peppers Onions Tomatoes Recipe for a fresh twist.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 |
Protein | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Dietary Fiber | 15g |
Fat | 3g |
Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
Sodium | 550mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 15% DV |
Iron | 20% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty whole grain bread or a fresh green salad for a light but filling meal. For a protein boost, consider a side of roasted chickpeas or a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top.
It also complements classic comfort dishes like the Bread And Gravy Recipe, making your meal feel cozy and complete. For brunch or breakfast lovers, try pairing it with the savory Breakfast Wellington Recipe for a truly indulgent combo.
Conclusion
The All Recipes.com Vegetarian Split Pea Soup is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and nutritious meal. Its hearty texture and rich flavor make it an ideal choice for cold days or whenever you need a comforting bowl of soup.
With easy preparation and wholesome components, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all levels.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, this split pea soup is a fantastic option that won’t disappoint. Remember to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices to make it truly your own.
Don’t forget to check out other recipes like Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe or Bluebill Duck Recipes to expand your culinary repertoire!
📖 Recipe Card: All Recipes.com Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Description: A hearty and healthy vegetarian split pea soup packed with vegetables and flavor. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT1H30M
Total Time: PT1H45M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup diced potatoes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, and potatoes if using.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 1 hour or until peas are tender.
- Remove bay leaf and season with salt and pepper.
- Use an immersion blender to partially puree soup for desired consistency.
- Stir in fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 14 g | Fat: 3 g | Carbs: 38 g
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