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Vegan Split Pea Soup

Vegan Split Pea Soup
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Hearty and flavorful Vegan Split Pea Soup made with simple pantry staples. Rich in plant-based protein and fiber, this comforting and nutritious soup is perfect for cozy nights. Easy to prepare, customizable, and budget-friendly, it’s a wholesome meal that satisfies and warms you up.

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 1 cup split peas, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Finishing Touch

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar

Optional Variations

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika or a few drops liquid smoke (for smoky twist)
  • Fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or sage, to taste
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
  • 1 cup diced potatoes or parsnips (for chunky texture)
  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (added before serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely chop the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. This combination creates the classic mirepoix base that brings essential flavor and aroma to your soup.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots, and cook until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the Split Peas and Broth: Rinse the split peas thoroughly and add them to the pot along with the vegetable broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the peas are fully submerged for even cooking.
  4. Season and Simmer: Add bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally and cook until the peas are tender and the soup has thickened, about 45-60 minutes. Add optional ingredients like smoked paprika, potatoes, or extra herbs if desired.
  5. Blend (Optional) and Finish With Acid: Use an immersion blender to purée some or all of the soup for a smooth texture, or leave it chunky if preferred. Stir in a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors right before serving. Add chopped kale or spinach just before serving for freshness and color.

Notes

  • Rinse the peas thoroughly to remove dirt and reduce foam during cooking.
  • Keep an eye on liquid levels; add more broth or water if the soup thickens too quickly.
  • Whenever possible, use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
  • Slow simmering is key; it allows flavors to develop and peas to soften perfectly.
  • Add lemon juice or vinegar only at the end to avoid toughening the peas.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • The soup freezes well for up to 3 months; allow to cool before freezing and leave space in the container for expansion.
  • Reheat gently on the stove, adding broth or water if needed to thin the soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: vegan split pea soup, plant-based soup, gluten free, hearty soup, cozy dinner, vegan protein, fiber-rich soup

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/vegan-split-pea-soup/