Vegetarian Split Pea Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s brimming with flavor and packed with nutrients. This vegetarian split pea soup is exactly that, a hearty, satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. The secret ingredient? A touch of smoked paprika that adds a depth of smoky flavor, mimicking the traditional taste of ham often found in split pea soup. Get ready to learn how to make a delicious and comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any soup recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl with a smoky secret. I’ve crafted this vegetarian split pea soup to be both incredibly flavorful and easy to prepare.

• The smoky paprika adds a depth of flavor you won’t believe! It elevates the humble split pea to new heights, creating a complex and savory profile.
• It’s a hearty and comforting vegetarian meal. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s sure to keep you satisfied.
• This recipe is easy to make and perfect for meal prepping. You can easily double or triple the batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
• A budget-friendly way to enjoy a filling and delicious soup. Split peas are an inexpensive source of nutrition.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups chopped onion
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 2 cups peeled and chopped carrots
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 garlic cloves ((minced))
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper ((to taste))
• 10 cups less sodium vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups dried split green peas
• Grated Parmesan ((to serve; optional))

Ingredient Notes & Substitutions

Let’s break down each ingredient and explore some substitutions to make this recipe your own.

• Split Peas: Green and yellow split peas are both great, but green ones will give you a more classic split pea soup color. No pre-soaking is required, which is a huge time-saver!
• Vegetable Broth: I prefer low-sodium vegetable broth to control the saltiness. Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works just as well. Bouillon cubes can also be used. For a non-vegetarian version, chicken broth adds richness.
• Smoked Paprika: This is the star of the show, providing that crucial smoky flavor. High-quality smoked paprika makes all the difference!
• Parmesan Cheese: For a vegan option, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy, umami flavor.

How to Make Vegetarian Split Pea Soup

Here’s how to bring this delicious vegetarian split pea soup to life in your own kitchen. The process is straightforward, with simple steps that yield incredible flavor.

1. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika – this is my little twist for added smokiness. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften (about 5 minutes), releasing their aromas and creating a flavorful base.

2. Add Broth and Split Peas

Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the bay leaf and dried split peas. The bay leaf adds a subtle depth of flavor as the soup simmers.

3. Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer gently for 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the split peas are very tender and starting to break down. The soup should thicken as it cooks. The long simmering time allows the split peas to release their starch, creating a naturally creamy texture.

4. Adjust Seasonings

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or smoked paprika to your liking. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

5. Serve

Remove the bay leaf. Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired). Enjoy this comforting and flavorful vegetarian split pea soup!

Instant Pot Instructions

Want to enjoy this soup even faster? Here’s how to adapt it for the Instant Pot:

• Sauté Vegetables: Use the ‘Sauté’ function to sauté the onions, celery, carrots, garlic, thyme and smoked paprika in olive oil until softened.
• Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the vegetable broth, split peas, and bay leaf to the Instant Pot.
• Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
• Adjust and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, stir well, and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

Here are some tips and tricks to ensure your vegetarian split pea soup turns out perfectly every time.

Pro Tips

• Don’t skip the sautéing step: Sautéing the vegetables develops their flavor and adds depth to the soup through the Maillard reaction.
• Use low-sodium broth: This allows you to control the saltiness of the soup.
• Adjust the thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer uncovered for a while to reduce the liquid.
• Add acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor. The acid balances the richness.
• Make it Creamy: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup for a creamier texture. Be careful not to over-blend.
• Add a Parmesan rind: Adding a Parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers adds a rich, savory flavor. Just be sure to remove it before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using enough liquid: Make sure the split peas are fully submerged in broth to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Over-salting: Taste frequently and add salt gradually, especially if using store-bought broth.
• Burning the vegetables: Stir the vegetables frequently while sautéing to prevent them from burning.
• Rushing the cooking process: Allow the split peas to simmer slowly until they are fully tender for the best texture.

Serving & Storage

Here are some ideas for serving and storing your delicious vegetarian split pea soup.

Serving Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
• Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich or a side salad.
• Top with croutons or a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives.

Storage and Make-Ahead

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, or in the microwave. Add a little broth or water if needed to thin the consistency.

Conclusion

This Vegetarian Split Pea Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that’s easy to make. The addition of smoked paprika adds a unique smoky depth that elevates the flavor profile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to be a success. Try adding different vegetables or spices to customize it to your liking. Enjoy!

If you are a soup enthusiast, you might like this fire roasted tomato soup recipe.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making vegetarian split pea soup.

• Do split peas need to be soaked before cooking? No, split peas do not need to be soaked before cooking. They cook relatively quickly without soaking.
• How long does it take to cook split peas? Split peas typically take about 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 hours to cook on the stovetop, or 15 minutes in an Instant Pot.
• Can you make split pea soup without meat? Yes, this recipe is a delicious vegetarian version of split pea soup. The smoked paprika provides a smoky flavor that mimics the taste of ham often found in traditional recipes.
• How do you thicken split pea soup? Split pea soup naturally thickens as the split peas break down during cooking. To thicken it further, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup.
• Is split pea soup healthy? Yes, split pea soup is a healthy and nutritious meal. It is high in fiber and protein.
• Can split pea soup be frozen? Yes, split pea soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For those curious about the nutritional benefits, you might find information on the vitamins and minerals in split peas beneficial.

For another easy recipe, check out this creamy vegan potato soup.

If you’re interested in learning more about sauteing, a key step in this recipe, Wikipedia offers a detailed explanation of the process.

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