Imagine a soup so hearty, so incredibly satisfying that it transforms your entire meal experience – welcome to the world of Vegan Split Pea Soup! This isn't just another recipe; it's a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and mind-blowing flavors that will make you forget you're eating something entirely plant-based. Whether you're a dedicated vegan, a health enthusiast, or simply someone craving a warm, comforting dish, this split pea soup will become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed split peas to the pot. Sprinkle dried thyme over the mixture.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom.
- Check the consistency of the split peas. They should be soft and beginning to break down, creating a creamy texture. If needed, add more vegetable broth or water to adjust thickness.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the seasonings.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
Tips
- Always rinse your split peas thoroughly to remove any potential debris and ensure a clean, pure flavor.
- Use fresh vegetables for maximum flavor and nutrition – the difference is noticeable!
- Don't rush the simmering process. Slow cooking allows the peas to break down and create that creamy, luxurious texture.
- For extra depth, consider adding a bay leaf during simmering or a splash of liquid smoke for a subtle smoky undertone.
- If the soup becomes too thick, gradually add more vegetable broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- This soup freezes beautifully, so don't hesitate to make a large batch for future quick meals.
- For added protein, consider garnishing with roasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 12g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
