Split Peas Vegan Recipe: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Ideas

Split peas are a powerhouse ingredient in vegan cooking, offering both hearty texture and rich nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a comforting soup, a protein-packed stew, or a versatile base for various dishes, split peas are your go-to legume.

This split peas vegan recipe combines simple ingredients with robust flavors to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is healthy. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a wholesome, plant-based dish, this recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.

In this post, you’ll find everything you need to prepare a delicious vegan split pea dish from scratch, including tips on variations and serving ideas. Plus, we’ll dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your weekly menu.

Ready to explore the magic of split peas in a vegan-friendly way? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This split peas vegan recipe is a perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and simplicity. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich in plant-based protein: Split peas are an excellent source of protein, making this dish a filling and nutritious option for vegans.
• Fiber-packed: With a high fiber content, it supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
• Budget-friendly and accessible: Split peas are affordable and easy to find in most grocery stores.
• Comforting and versatile: This recipe can be enjoyed as a soup, stew, or even a spread, adapting to your preferences.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor: The combination of herbs, spices, and vegetables enhances the natural earthiness of split peas.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried split peas (green or yellow, rinsed and sorted)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional for extra creaminess)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or any neutral oil
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle (for serving)
• Optional: blender or immersion blender (for creamier texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the split peas: Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly under cold water. Remove any small stones or debris.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In your pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the spices: Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf, letting them toast slightly to release their flavors.
4. Combine the peas and broth: Add the rinsed split peas and diced potato (if using) to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and stir to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. The split peas should be tender and breaking down.
6. Adjust texture: For a thicker and creamier consistency, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. Alternatively, transfer half the soup to a blender, pulse until smooth, and stir back in.
7. Season to taste: Remove the bay leaf. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Stir well.
8. Serve: Ladle the split pea soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of coconut milk or a teaspoon of miso paste toward the end of cooking.”

• Make it smoky: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke or smoked sea salt to enhance the smoky notes without meat.
• Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes if you like a little heat.
• Use a slow cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach. Check out Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more inspiration.
• Add greens: Stir in chopped kale or spinach in the last 10 minutes for extra nutrition and color.
• Turn it into a stew: Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and your favorite herbs to create a chunkier, heartier stew.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This split pea vegan dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are some ideas to enjoy it further:

• Serve with crusty whole grain bread or a warm Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Top with a dollop of vegan yogurt or cashew cream to add creaminess.
• Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or nutritional yeast for extra texture and umami.
• Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed greens for a complete meal.
• Use leftovers as a base for vegan shepherd’s pie or as a filling for savory crepes.

Conclusion

This split peas vegan recipe is a wonderful addition to any plant-based kitchen. It’s simple to make, incredibly nutritious, and endlessly adaptable.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just experimenting with plant-based meals, this recipe offers a comforting and wholesome option that satisfies both taste buds and dietary needs.

By using basic pantry staples and fresh vegetables, you create a dish that’s not only budget-friendly but also bursting with flavor and texture. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the tips and variations to make it your own.

For more delicious vegan ideas, check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the creamy Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes. Happy cooking!

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