Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
A hearty, comforting vegetarian split pea soup packed with aromatic herbs and vegetables, perfect for chilly days and suitable for plant-based diets.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine vegetable broth, dried split peas, chopped onion, chopped carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, dried marjoram, dried basil, cumin, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for one hour or until peas are tender, stirring occasionally.
- Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- In small batches, puree the soup in a blender until smooth.
- Return the pureed soup to the pan and heat for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with shredded carrots before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend the soup longer or add a splash of coconut milk. If you want to boost the flavor, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering, then remove it before blending. You can substitute herbs with fresh ones if available; use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as dried. This recipe is also adaptable for those seeking vegan recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly shredded carrots for a pop of color and texture. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. Consider offering a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. This comforting soup is perfect as a standalone meal or alongside a light dish like an Orange Pineapple Drink.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover split pea soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Vegetarian Split Pea Soup contains roughly 519 calories, with 23g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (109% of the Daily Value), and calcium (68% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned split peas instead of dried?
Canned split peas are not recommended as they are already cooked and will not provide the same texture or flavor. Dried split peas are essential for achieving the right consistency and taste in this soup. If you're short on time, you can soak dried peas overnight to speed up the cooking process.
How do I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
Start by tasting the soup after the first hour of simmering. If you prefer a stronger flavor, gradually add more salt, pepper, or herbs as desired. Remember that seasoning can also be adjusted after blending, so do taste again before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly; firmer vegetables will need longer to cook, while softer ones can be added closer to the end.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).