Vegan Split Pea Soup

Introduction & Inspiration

This recipe, “Vegan Split Pea Soup,” is a plant-based version of the classic split pea soup, a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish often enjoyed during colder months.

The inspiration comes from a desire to create a vegan soup that’s both nourishing and delicious, capturing the essence of traditional split pea soup without using any animal products (like ham, which is common).

This version features dried split peas as the star, along with a medley of vegetables (onion, carrots, celery, potato), vegetable broth, and seasonings.

It’s a recipe that’s perfect for a cozy dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or any time you’re craving a warm and satisfying bowl of soup.

Nostalgic Appeal (with a Wholesome Twist)

Split pea soup, for many, evokes a sense of comfort and nostalgia, reminding them of home-cooked meals and family traditions.

This vegan version taps into that nostalgic appeal while offering a plant-based alternative that’s both healthy and delicious.

The combination of split peas, vegetables, and seasonings creates a familiar and comforting flavor profile.

It’s a recipe that proves you can enjoy classic comfort food without relying on animal products, making it suitable for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a healthier option.

Plant-Based and Hearty Focus

This recipe is all about creating a hearty, satisfying, and nutritious soup that’s entirely plant-based.

It’s packed with:

• Plant-Based Protein: From the dried split peas.
• Fiber: From the split peas and vegetables.
• Vitamins and Minerals: From the various vegetables.

It’s a recipe that’s naturally free of cholesterol and low in saturated fat, making it a heart-healthy option.

It’s also a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, whether you’re a committed vegan or simply looking to reduce your meat consumption.

The soup is naturally filling and satisfying, thanks to the protein and fiber content.

Flavor Goal

The primary flavor goal is a hearty, savory, and subtly sweet soup with a creamy texture and a hint of smokiness from the paprika.

The dried split peas provide the base flavor, which is earthy and slightly sweet.

The onion, carrots, celery, and garlic create a flavorful foundation, contributing sweetness and aromatic notes.

The diced potato adds body and creaminess to the soup.

The vegetable broth provides the liquid base and adds savory flavor.

The thyme adds a classic herbal note that complements the other flavors.

The smoked paprika contributes a subtle smoky flavor that adds depth and complexity.

The salt and pepper enhance the flavors and bring everything together.

It’s a flavor combination that’s both comforting and flavorful, perfect for a warming and satisfying meal.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down each ingredient:

• Dried Split Peas (rinsed): These are the star of the show, providing the protein, fiber, and creamy texture of the soup. Green split peas are traditionally used, but you can also use yellow split peas. Rinsing the split peas helps to remove any debris and excess starch.
• Onion (diced): This provides a savory, aromatic base for the soup.
• Carrots (diced): These add sweetness, color, and nutrients to the soup.
• Celery Stalks (diced): These contribute a subtle, savory flavor and a bit of crunch.
• Garlic Cloves (minced): This adds a pungent, flavorful note to the soup.
• Potato (peeled and diced): This adds body and creaminess to the soup, helping it to thicken naturally.
• Vegetable Broth or Water: This forms the liquid base of the soup. Vegetable broth adds more flavor, but water can also be used.
• Bay Leaf: This adds a subtle, herbal aroma and flavor to the soup. It’s removed before serving.
• Dried Thyme: This adds a classic herbal note that complements the other flavors.
• Smoked Paprika: This contributes a subtle smoky flavor that adds depth and complexity to the soup.
• Salt and Pepper: These essential seasonings enhance the flavors of all the other ingredients.
• Olive Oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables.
• Fresh Parsley (for garnish – optional): This adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color.

Essential Equipment

Here’s the equipment you’ll need:

• Large pot or Dutch oven: For cooking the soup. A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for even heat distribution and preventing sticking.
• Cutting board and knife: For chopping the vegetables.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient proportions.
• Wooden spoon or ladle: For stirring the soup.

That’s a very basic list of kitchen equipment!

List of Ingredients with Measurements

Here’s the ingredient list with precise measurements:

• 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 potato, peeled and diced
• 6 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through the process:

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the rinsed split peas, diced potato, bay leaf, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
4. Add Broth/Water: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 45-50 minutes, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Remove Bay Leaf: Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
7. Season: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve: Serve the split pea soup hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley.

Troubleshooting

Here are a few potential issues and solutions:

• Split Peas Not Tender: If the split peas are not tender after the simmering time, continue to cook them until they reach your desired consistency. You may need to add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick.
• Soup Too Thin: If the soup is too thin, you can simmer it for a longer period, uncovered, to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also mash some of the split peas against the side of the pot to thicken the soup.
• Soup Too Thick: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
• Soup Bland: Add more salt, pepper, herbs, or spices to taste. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Tips and Variations

Here are some ways to customize this recipe:

• Different Vegetables: Add other vegetables, such as diced parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes.
• Add Greens: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or other greens during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a dollop of vegan cream cheese, cashew cream, or coconut milk at the end for a creamier soup.
• Add Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin, coriander, or turmeric.
• Add Heat: Use a hotter pepper.
• Add Lemon Juice: Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for extra brightness and acidity.
• Garnish: Garnish the soup with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, croutons, or toasted seeds.
• Slow Cooker/Instant Pot: Adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot (see previous soup recipes for general guidelines).

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This Vegan Split Pea Soup is perfect for:

• Lunch or Dinner: It’s a hearty and satisfying meal on its own.
• Meal Prep: It’s a great make-ahead option, as it reheats well.
• Cold Weather Meals: It’s a comforting and warming soup, perfect for chilly days.

It pairs well with:

• Crusty Bread: For dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• A Green Salad: For a complete and balanced meal.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich (Vegan): For a classic comfort food pairing.

Nutritional Information

This Vegan Split Pea Soup is a very healthy and nutritious meal option.

It’s packed with:

• Plant-Based Protein: From the split peas.
• Fiber: From the split peas and vegetables.
• Vitamins and Minerals: From the various vegetables.

It’s also naturally low in fat and cholesterol-free.

The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and the serving size.

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Recipe Summary and Q&A

Recipe Summary: Vegan Split Pea Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and nutritious soup made with dried split peas, vegetables, vegetable broth, and seasonings. It’s a simple, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: Yes, split pea soup is even better the next day! You can make it up to 3-4 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Q: How long does it last? A: Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, it should last for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I freeze it? A: Yes, split pea soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Q: Can I use a different type of pea? A: This recipe is designed for split peas.

Q: Can I add meat to this soup? A: This is a vegan recipe, but traditionally, ham is used.

The History of Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup, like many classic soups, has a long and varied history.

Peas have been cultivated for thousands of years, and dried peas have been a staple food in many cultures due to their long shelf life and nutritional value.

Recipes for pea soup can be found in ancient Greek and Roman texts.

Split pea soup, made with dried split peas, became popular in various parts of Europe, particularly during the Middle Ages.

Different regions developed their own variations of split pea soup, using different vegetables, seasonings, and sometimes meat or ham.

In the United States, split pea soup is often associated with Dutch and Scandinavian cuisine.

It’s a hearty and comforting soup that’s often enjoyed during the colder months.

Our Vegan Split Pea Soup offers a plant-based take on this classic soup, maintaining the traditional flavors and textures while adapting it for a modern, meat-free diet.

The Benefits of Dried Peas

Dried split peas, the star ingredient in this soup, are a nutritional powerhouse. They are:

• Excellent Source of Protein: Important building blocks.
• High in Fiber: Great for digestive health.
• Rich in Minerals: Iron and more.
• Affordable A budget friendly ingredient.
• Versatile

Tips for Cooking with Dried Split Peas

Dried split peas, unlike other legumes like beans, don’t require pre-soaking, which makes them a convenient option for quick meals.

Here are a few tips for cooking with dried split peas:

• Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse dried split peas before cooking to remove any debris or dust.
• Simmer Gently: Simmer the split peas gently over low heat to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Stir Occasionally: Stir the soup occasionally to prevent the split peas from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Cook Until Tender: Cook the split peas until they’re tender but not completely disintegrated. They should still have a bit of texture.
• Season at the End: Add salt and other seasonings towards the end of the cooking process, as salt can sometimes toughen the peas if added too early.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your split peas are cooked perfectly, resulting in a delicious and satisfying soup.

The Art of Seasoning Soup

Adding the right seasonings can greatly enhance flavor.