If you’re looking for a comforting, nutritious, and budget-friendly soup, this Vegan Split Pea Soup is the perfect choice. Made with simple pantry staples and packed with plant-based protein, this soup is a hearty meal that will keep you warm and satisfied.
Split peas are a fantastic source of fiber and protein, making this dish not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. With a blend of aromatic vegetables and warming spices, this recipe creates a thick, flavorful soup without the need for any animal products. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking for a meatless meal, this soup is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 100% Plant-Based – No animal products, yet packed with flavor.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses inexpensive, everyday ingredients.
- Simple & Easy – Minimal prep, one-pot meal.
- Nutritious & Filling – High in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic ($0.16)
- 1 yellow onion ($0.28)
- 3 ribs celery ($0.36)
- 3 carrots ($0.24)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil ($0.32)
- 1 lb. split peas (dry) ($1.49)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika ($0.05)
- 1 tsp dried parsley ($0.10)
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme ($0.02)
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked pepper ($0.02)
- 6 cups water ($0.00)
- 1.5 tsp salt (or to taste) ($0.07)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Mince the garlic and dice the onion, celery, and carrots.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about five minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Split Peas & Seasonings: Stir in the dry split peas, smoked paprika, parsley, oregano, thyme, and freshly cracked pepper.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Add 6 cups of water and stir to combine.
- Cover the pot with a lid, bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Let the soup simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 45 minutes, or until the peas have completely broken down and the soup thickens.
- Season to Taste: Start by adding ½ teaspoon of salt, then adjust as needed. I used about 1.5 teaspoons in total.
- Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy with crackers or crusty bread for dipping!
Tips for the Best Vegan Split Pea Soup
- Use Vegetable Broth: Substitute water with vegetable broth for an even richer flavor.
- Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Enhance the Flavor: A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking brightens up the flavors.
- Make It Creamier: Blend half the soup for a smooth and creamy texture while keeping some chunkiness.
- Add More Protein: Stir in cooked quinoa or lentils for an extra protein boost.
Storage & Meal Prep
This soup stores well, making it great for meal prep!
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use green or yellow split peas?
Yes! Both green and yellow split peas work well. Green peas tend to be sweeter, while yellow peas have a milder flavor.
2. Do I need to soak the split peas before cooking?
No soaking is required! Unlike some other legumes, split peas cook down quickly without pre-soaking.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for some heat.
5. What should I serve with split pea soup?
Crusty bread, crackers, or a fresh green salad complement this soup perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Split Pea Soup is an easy, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of year. It’s packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and comforting flavors that make it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner.
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Happy cooking!
