Vegan Split Pea Soup
Vegan Split Pea Soup is a nourishing and soul-soothing plant-based soup that blends tender split peas with aromatic herbs and vegetables, creating a rich, creamy texture and deep comforting flavors. Packed with protein and fiber, this wholesome soup is perfect for chilly evenings, batch cooking, and easy customization.
- Author: James
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegan
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup green split peas, rinsed
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Optional Variations
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke (for smoky twist)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño (for spicy kick)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (greens boost)
- 1 medium potato, diced (for creamier, thicker soup)
- Fresh rosemary or oregano, to replace thyme (herbal variation)
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the diced onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a savory foundation for the soup.
- Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic and dried thyme, cooking for another minute until the garlic releases its aroma, adding subtle complexity to the broth.
- Combine Split Peas and Broth: Add the rinsed green split peas, vegetable broth, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir everything to evenly combine the ingredients.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes. Stir occasionally until the peas soften and the soup thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaves, season with salt and pepper to taste, and if desired, blend a portion of the soup for extra creaminess. Serve warm and enjoy your Vegan Split Pea Soup.
Notes
- Rinse peas well to remove debris and prevent excessive foam during cooking.
- Simmer gently on low heat to avoid peas breaking down too quickly and to develop deep flavor.
- Adjust thickness by adding broth or water if too thick, or cook uncovered longer for thicker texture.
- Use fresh herbs if possible for brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Puree a portion of the soup to achieve a creamy, velvety texture without dairy.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 10 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: vegan split pea soup, plant-based soup, gluten free soup, healthy vegan recipe, comfort food, high protein vegan soup