How to Make the Perfect Vegan Split Pea Soup
American · Easy · 60 min · 6 servings
This classic vegan split pea soup is thick, creamy, and deeply satisfying without any ham or meat making it a perfect plant-based comfort food. It is a nourishing vegan recipe that relies on smoky paprika and vegetables to deliver all the bold flavor traditionally associated with this beloved dish.
Why this recipe works
This Vegan Split Pea Soup recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 60 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 17g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 8 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups dried green split peas rinsed
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 3 stalks celery diced
- 1 medium yellow onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and smoked paprika and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Add Split Peas and Broth
Add the rinsed split peas and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well and bring to a boil over high heat.
Step 3: Simmer Until Thick
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the split peas have fully dissolved and the soup has thickened naturally.
Step 4: Season and Adjust
Season generously with salt and black pepper. If the soup is too thick add a little more broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle into bowls and serve hot with crusty sourdough bread and a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- green split peas → yellow split peas for a slightly milder and lighter flavored soup
- smoked paprika → a few drops of liquid smoke for a more intense smoky depth
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not stirring the soup regularly which allows the split peas to stick and burn on the bottom
- Adding salt before the split peas are fully cooked which can prevent them from softening properly
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 17g protein, 50g carbs, 4g fat, 18g fiber.
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