Split Pea Crock Pot Recipe Vegetarian Made Easy and Tasty

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of split pea soup, especially when it’s effortlessly prepared in a crock pot. This split pea crock pot recipe vegetarian is a hearty, nourishing, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days, busy weeknights, or anytime you crave a wholesome meal.

Made with simple, fresh ingredients and slow-cooked to perfection, it melds the earthy flavor of split peas with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs. Plus, it’s completely plant-based, making it an ideal choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, meat-free dinner.

Whether you’re a seasoned slow cooker fan or just getting started, this recipe requires minimal prep and promises maximum flavor. The beauty of a crock pot is that it does all the work for you, allowing flavors to deepen and ingredients to become tender without any constant monitoring.

So get ready to cozy up with a delicious bowl of vegetarian split pea soup that’s as satisfying as it is simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it work its magic.

The slow cooking process creates a rich, creamy texture without needing any dairy, making it vegan-friendly and perfect for those with dietary restrictions.

The soup is packed with plant-based protein and fiber from the split peas, which will keep you full and satisfied for hours. It’s also a wonderful source of vitamins and minerals thanks to the assortment of vegetables included.

You can customize this recipe to your liking by adding different herbs or spices, making it a versatile staple in your recipe collection.

Finally, it’s budget-friendly and ideal for meal prepping. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, or freeze portions for busy days ahead.

If you love other vegetarian slow cooker meals, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more inspiration.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups dried green split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: 1 teaspoon liquid smoke for a smoky flavor

Equipment

• Crock pot/slow cooker (4-6 quart size recommended)
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing peas)

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Rinse the split peas in cold water, sorting out any debris. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
2. Sauté onion and garlic: In a small pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add ingredients to the crock pot: Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your crock pot. Add the rinsed split peas, carrots, celery, potato, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika.
4. Season and stir: Add salt and pepper to taste. If using, pour in the liquid smoke for enhanced smokiness. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Cook on low: Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Let the soup cook for 7-8 hours, or until the split peas and vegetables are tender and the soup has thickened.
6. Final touch: Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky if you prefer. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, if desired. Enjoy warm!

Tips & Variations

For an even richer flavor, sauté the carrots, celery, and potato along with the onion and garlic before adding them to the crock pot.

You can easily customize this recipe to match your taste preferences:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
• Herb swaps: Try rosemary, oregano, or basil instead of thyme for different flavor profiles.
• Make it vegan creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or plant-based cream just before serving.
• Add greens: Toss in some kale or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Use yellow split peas: They work just as well and create a slightly sweeter soup.

For more slow cooker vegetarian recipes that you’ll love, explore our Slow Cooker Vegetarian Recipes Easy and Delicious Ideas.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This split pea soup is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

• Pair it with crusty whole grain bread or a warm baguette for dipping.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
• Top with a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a vegan sour cream alternative for creaminess.
• Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or crunchy croutons on top for added texture.

For a comforting bread option, you might enjoy trying our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to make your own homemade bread to complement this soup perfectly.

Conclusion

This vegetarian split pea crock pot recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan, especially when you want something hearty, healthy, and hassle-free. The slow cooker transforms humble ingredients into a rich, savory soup bursting with flavor and nutrition.

It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to enjoy a comforting plant-based dish without spending hours in the kitchen.

With its simple step-by-step process, this soup allows you to prepare a nourishing meal while focusing on your day. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a longtime fan, this recipe is sure to become a staple. Don’t forget to explore more vegetarian delights like the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert or the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals for your next dinner inspiration.

Happy cooking!

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