Best Vegan Recipes Using Dried Split Peas for Healthy Meals

Dried split peas are a pantry staple that often get overlooked, but they are a powerhouse ingredient in vegan cooking. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, split peas offer a hearty texture and subtle earthiness that’s perfect for a variety of dishes.

Whether you’re new to vegan eating or a seasoned plant-based cook, incorporating dried split peas into your meals can bring new depth and satisfaction to your culinary repertoire. From comforting soups to flavorful stews and even creative spreads, these legumes shine when cooked with the right spices and techniques.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best vegan recipes using dried split peas that are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly delicious. Each recipe highlights the versatility of split peas and will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.

Plus, we’ll share tips for cooking dried split peas perfectly every time, so you can enjoy their full flavor and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Dried split peas are not only affordable and shelf-stable, but they also offer a nutrient-dense option for anyone looking to boost plant-based protein intake. These recipes bring out their creamy texture and mild flavor, making them incredibly versatile for a range of dishes.

Whether you want a cozy bowl of split pea soup or a vibrant curry, these recipes are designed to be simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. Plus, dried split peas cook relatively quickly compared to other dried legumes, saving you time without compromising on flavor.

Every recipe is vegan, gluten-free, and free from processed ingredients, focusing on wholesome, natural food that nurtures your body and soul.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried split peas (green or yellow)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cumin powder
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
• Optional: 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender (optional for creamy texture)
• Colander or sieve for rinsing peas

Instructions

1. Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dust or debris. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften and onions become translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
4. Stir in smoked paprika, cumin, and optional thyme or rosemary. Toast the spices for 1-2 minutes to release their aroma.
5. Add the rinsed split peas, diced tomatoes with their juices, and vegetable broth. Toss in the bay leaf and stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 40-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender and breaking apart.
7. Remove the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer half the soup to a blender and puree until smooth, then mix back.
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust spices if needed.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Tips & Variations

“Soaking dried split peas overnight isn’t necessary, but if you have time, it can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.”

• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapenos when sautéing the onions.
• Split Pea Curry: Swap the smoked paprika and cumin for curry powder and add coconut milk toward the end for a rich, creamy version.
• Split Pea Salad: Cook peas until just tender, then toss with chopped cucumber, tomatoes, lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs for a refreshing salad.
• Use vegetable scraps: When making broth, save vegetable peels and ends for homemade stock to enhance flavor.
• Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty split pea soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty whole grain bread or garlic naan for dipping. You can also serve it over steamed rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

Garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for extra brightness and richness. For a smoky twist, serve alongside roasted vegetables or grilled tofu.

For more inspiration on vegan dishes, you might enjoy trying the Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe or the delicious Collard Green Casserole Recipes.

Best Vegan Recipes Using Dried Split Peas

Classic Vegan Split Pea Soup

This recipe follows the instructions above, yielding a smooth, comforting soup perfect for chilly days. It’s a timeless favorite that’s both nourishing and filling.

Spiced Split Pea and Coconut Curry

• Ingredients: 1 cup dried split peas, 1 can coconut milk, 1 tbsp curry powder, 1 chopped onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1-inch ginger piece (grated), 1 diced tomato, 4 cups vegetable broth, salt to taste, cilantro for garnish.
• Instructions: Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant. Add curry powder and toast briefly. Add split peas, tomato, and broth. Simmer until peas are soft. Stir in coconut milk and heat through. Season and garnish.

Split Pea and Vegetable Stew

• Ingredients: 1 cup split peas, 1 diced potato, 1 cup chopped kale, 2 carrots, 1 onion, 4 cups vegetable broth, 1 tsp thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Instructions: Sauté onions and carrots, add potatoes and broth. Add split peas and thyme, simmer until peas and vegetables are tender. Stir in kale and cook until wilted. Season well.

Split Pea Patties with Herb Sauce

• Ingredients: Cooked split peas, 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tbsp chopped parsley, salt, pepper, olive oil for frying.
• Instructions: Mash peas, mix with breadcrumbs, garlic, and parsley. Form into patties. Fry in olive oil until golden. Serve with a vegan herb sauce or tahini dressing.

For a fun twist on vegan comfort food, check out how you can incorporate rich sauces like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe to drizzle over your split pea patties or stews.

Conclusion

Dried split peas are truly a versatile and nutritious ingredient that every vegan kitchen should embrace. Their affordability and ease of preparation make them a practical choice for hearty meals that satisfy both the body and soul.

From classic soups to curries, stews, and even patties, there are countless creative ways to enjoy these legumes.

Integrating dried split peas into your diet can help you build balanced, protein-rich meals that are both delicious and comforting. Plus, these recipes are easy to customize with your favorite spices and vegetables.

We hope this collection inspires you to experiment and savor the wholesome goodness of dried split peas.

Don’t forget to explore more delicious recipes on our site like the indulgent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe or warming Chili Recipe New Mexico for your next cooking adventure!

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