Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Recipe Cookie and Kate Guide

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and nutritious soup that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave something wholesome, the Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Recipe from Cookie and Kate is an absolute must-try.

This classic soup is a wonderful blend of tender split peas, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs, all simmered together to create a creamy, filling meal that’s entirely plant-based. It’s not only easy to make but also budget-friendly, making it a staple for any vegetarian kitchen.

What makes this split pea soup stand out is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The natural earthiness of the peas is complemented beautifully by aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions.

Plus, the recipe is flexible enough to tweak based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just trying to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this soup will quickly become a favorite.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through why this recipe is so beloved, the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, detailed instructions, and some handy tips and variations. Plus, I’ll share nutrition facts and serving suggestions to make your meal complete.

So, let’s dive right in and get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian split pea soup recipe is a standout for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly satisfying and filling thanks to the high protein and fiber content of the split peas.

It’s an ideal meal for vegetarians and vegans looking for a wholesome dish that delivers both nutrition and flavor.

Second, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry and fridge. The slow simmering process melds the flavors perfectly without requiring much hands-on time.

You can make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, which makes it excellent for meal prep.

Finally, this recipe is versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs, spices, or vegetables, or make it creamier by blending a portion of the soup.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be adjusted to be soy-free or nut-free depending on your dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice for brightness
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or croutons

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottom pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Immersion blender if you want a creamier texture

Instructions

1. Prepare the split peas: Rinse 1 cup of dried green split peas thoroughly under cold water. Remove any debris or small stones.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Combine ingredients: Add the rinsed split peas to the pot along with 6 cups of vegetable broth. Toss in 1 bay leaf and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The peas should become tender and start to break down.
6. Season: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
7. Optional blending: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer a portion to a blender, then stir back in.
8. Final touch: Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or crunchy croutons before serving.

Tips & Variations

“Make sure not to skip rinsing the split peas – it helps remove dust and improves the final taste.”

If you like a smoky flavor, consider adding a smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke during the simmering process. For extra heartiness, diced potatoes or parsnips can be stirred in along with the carrots and celery.

You can also swap out the vegetable broth for mushroom broth for a richer umami flavor. If you prefer a chunkier soup, hold back from blending it entirely.

For a vegan creaminess without dairy, swirl in a little coconut cream or cashew cream just before serving.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture if it thickens too much.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This split pea soup is fantastic served warm with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last drop. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables.

If you want to keep it light, try serving with a simple cucumber and tomato salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, add a dollop of Greek yogurt or vegan sour cream on top and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes.

Don’t forget to check out these other delicious vegetarian recipes for inspiration:

• Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious
• Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas
• Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals

Conclusion

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply someone who enjoys wholesome, plant-based meals, Cookie and Kate’s vegetarian split pea soup recipe is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. It’s rich in protein and fiber, easy to prepare, and offers a comforting flavor that’s perfect for any season.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this soup is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Besides being delicious, this recipe is highly adaptable – you can tailor it to your taste preferences or dietary needs, making it a versatile go-to meal. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weekdays.

So grab your pot, gather the ingredients, and enjoy a warm bowl of nourishing split pea soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Happy cooking!

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