Vegan Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting dish packed with rich, earthy flavors and wholesome ingredients. Made with tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices, this soup has a thick, velvety texture without needing any cream. A touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke adds depth, making it just as satisfying as the traditional version—without the meat.
The first time I made this, I was looking for a plant-based soup that was both nourishing and full of flavor. As it simmered, the split peas broke down beautifully, creating a naturally creamy texture, while the garlic, onions, and carrots added just the right amount of sweetness. A squeeze of lemon at the end brought everything to life, making it an instant favorite.
What I love about Vegan Split Pea Soup is how simple yet deeply flavorful it is. Whether served with crusty bread, topped with fresh herbs, or enjoyed as a cozy meal on a chilly day, this soup is a satisfying, protein-packed dish that’s both comforting and delicious!
Perfect for:
- Cozy winter nights
- Healthy meal prep
- Plant-based diets
- Quick and easy lunches
- Budget-friendly meals
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why this Vegan Split Pea Soup will become a staple in your kitchen:
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with fiber and protein, this soup keeps you full for hours.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation make this a go-to meal.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of garlic, onions, and herbs creates a deep, savory taste.
- Naturally Creamy: The split peas break down into a thick, luscious consistency without dairy.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge and freezer for quick, healthy meals.
- Gluten-Free: Completely gluten-free and packed with nourishing ingredients.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples that won’t break the bank.
- Customizable: Easily adjust seasonings or add extra vegetables to suit your taste.
- Low in Fat, High in Nutrients: A healthy balance of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Comforting and Warming: A perfect dish to cozy up with on a cold day.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 16g, Carbs: 45g, Fiber: 12g, Fat: 3g
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for brightness)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 medium potato, diced (for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (for added greens)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
Ingredient Highlights
- Split Peas: A fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor to enhance the soup.
- Vegetable Broth: Creates a rich, flavorful base without added fats.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Balances the flavors and enhances digestion.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse Split Peas: Thoroughly rinse the split peas under cold water and set aside.
- Chop Vegetables: Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for easy cooking.
Cook the Soup:
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add Peas and Broth: Pour in the split peas and vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and let the soup simmer for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and broken down.
Finish and Serve:
- Adjust Seasoning: Remove the bay leaf and stir in apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
- Serve Hot: Ladle into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Vegan Split Pea Soup:
- With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside toasted sourdough or whole-grain bread for dipping.
- Topped with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Light Dinner: Enjoy with roasted vegetables or a grain bowl.
- With Coconut Cream: Swirl in a little coconut cream for added richness.
- As a Protein-Packed Lunch: Pair with a quinoa salad or grilled tofu.
- With Croutons: Top with crunchy homemade croutons for texture.
- Topped with Roasted Chickpeas: Add roasted chickpeas for extra protein and crunch.
- With a Drizzle of Olive Oil: Enhance the flavor with a touch of extra virgin olive oil.
- Paired with Avocado Toast: Enjoy alongside avocado toast for a nutrient-dense meal.
Additional Tips
- Sauté for Depth – Start by sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil to build a rich, flavorful base before adding the split peas.
- Use Vegetable Broth – Swap water for vegetable broth to enhance the overall taste and add extra layers of umami.
- Simmer Slowly – Allow the soup to cook low and slow to ensure the peas break down properly, creating a naturally creamy texture.
- Add a Smoky Element – For a hint of smokiness, stir in smoked paprika, liquid smoke, or a dash of cumin.
- Brighten with Acid – A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end balances the flavors and enhances the soup’s richness.
- Stir Occasionally – Split peas can stick to the bottom of the pot as they cook, so stir every so often to prevent burning.
- Customize the Texture – Blend part of the soup for extra creaminess or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
- Add Greens for Nutrition – Stir in fresh spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking for extra vitamins and color.
- Boost Protein – Toss in cooked lentils, chickpeas, or crumbled tofu to make the soup even more filling.
- Let It Rest – The flavors deepen after sitting for a while, so consider making the soup ahead of time and reheating it for an even better taste.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Split Pea Soup: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Curried Split Pea Soup: Stir in curry powder for a fragrant twist.
- Chunky Version: Leave the soup unblended for a heartier texture.
- Mediterranean Style: Add chopped tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh rosemary or sage for extra depth of flavor.
- Lentil Mix: Use half split peas and half lentils for a unique variation.
- Creamy Coconut: Replace some of the broth with coconut milk for a creamier version.
- Miso Infused: Stir in a tablespoon of miso paste at the end for umami richness.
- Lemon & Dill: Add fresh dill and lemon zest for a bright, zesty taste.
- Slow Cooker Version: Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
Special Equipment
- Large Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot works best for even cooking.
- Ladle: For easy serving.
- Immersion Blender: If you prefer a smoother soup.
- Fine Mesh Strainer: To rinse the split peas thoroughly.
- Airtight Containers: For storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer.
FAQ Section
- Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes! Yellow split peas have a slightly milder flavor but work just as well in this recipe. - Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?
No, split peas cook quickly and do not require soaking. However, rinsing them helps remove excess starch. - How can I make this soup creamier?
Blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or a regular blender for a smoother texture. - What vegetables can I add for more flavor?
Carrots, celery, potatoes, and leeks add depth to the soup. Feel free to experiment! - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the peas are soft. - How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth. - Can I freeze Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. - What spices work well in this soup?
Bay leaves, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, and black pepper enhance the flavor beautifully. - Is there a substitute for onions and garlic?
Try using leeks or fennel for a milder taste, or omit them entirely if needed. - What can I serve with split pea soup?
Crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad pair wonderfully with this hearty soup.
Conclusion
Vegan Split Pea Soup is a hearty, comforting bowl of goodness, packed with tender split peas, aromatic vegetables, and warm, savory flavors. Slow-simmered to perfection, this soup develops a thick, creamy texture without any dairy, making it both nourishing and satisfying. Every spoonful is rich, wholesome, and deeply comforting—perfect for a cozy meal any time of year.
Simple to make and naturally protein-packed, this soup is ideal for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner. Customize it with a dash of smoked paprika for depth, fresh herbs for brightness, or a squeeze of lemon for a hint of acidity. However you season it, this plant-based classic is sure to warm you from the inside out!
I can’t wait to see how your Vegan Split Pea Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!