Healthy & Comforting Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Recipe
Article & Photos by: allie albanese
Craving comfort food without the guilt? This easy Vegetarian Split Pea Soup recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for satisfying health-conscious appetites!
Winter is upon us and I don’t know about you, but cold temperatures have me craving warm and hearty comfort food. But after the gluttony of the holidays at my house, my body is also desperate for food that’s healthy, too! Enter this easy vegetarian split pea soup recipe to the rescue.
Although I don’t follow a strict vegetarian diet, more often than not I opt for plant-based meals. And soup recipes are one of my favorite ways to get a big dose of nutritious veggies while also satisfying my craving for something warm and hearty.
While you typically find ham hocks or ham bone in split pea soup here in the south, this meatless version is a super flavorful alternative for vegans, vegetarians, and those looking for a healthier alternative. It’s also gluten free, dairy free, and low calorie, so it makes a wholesome addition to any well-balanced diet. All you need is some yummy veggies and a bit of time to transform the humble split pea into this satisfying and tasty vegetarian split pea soup!
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What Are Split Peas?
Split peas are essentially mature field peas that have been dried and split in half, a process that occurs naturally during the drying process. Believed to have originated nearly 5,000 years ago in Southwestern Asia, they have been cultivated for centuries and enjoyed in various foods throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and America.
Available in both yellow and green varieties, these little legumes have an earthy, slightly sweet flavor. They’re super versatile thanks to the fact that they absorb the surrounding flavors they’re cooked with, and unlike their whole counterparts they don’t require soaking, making them a convenient choice for busy kitchens. Once cooked, split peas develop a creamy texture, which forms the backbone of this delicious split pea soup.
Beyond their taste and texture, however, split peas pack a nutritional punch. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, their low-fat, vitamin-packed content makes them a healthy addition to any diet.
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Ingredients
Creating a deliciously thick vegetarian split pea soup is all about each ingredient pulling its weight. Here’s what you need to help you turn a simple mix into a truly comforting bowl:
- DRY SPLIT PEAS: Two cups dried split peas serve as the heart and soul of this vegan pea soup. I used green split peas in mine, but you can certainly opt for yellow split peas if you prefer.
- CARROTS, YELLOW ONION, AND CELERY: A vegetable trio that adds color, texture, and fresh flavor to this healthy vegetarian split pea soup.
- GARLIC, FRESH PARSLEY, DRIED THYME, AND BAY LEAVES: This comforting soup gets its depth of flavor thanks to the aromatic richness of this herb combination.
- CUMIN, RED PEPPER FLAKES, PAPRIKA, SALT, AND PEPPER: This well-balanced spice blend adds warmth to every spoonful.
- VEGETABLE BROTH: The foundation of this vegetarian split pea soup is veggie stock, which brings all of the ingredients together.
- LEMON JUICE: This finishing touch of acidity adds brightness to your overall bowl!
How To Make Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
This recipe for vegetarian split pea soup couldn’t be easier to follow! If you can dump ingredients together in a pot then you can definitely whip up this vegan soup. 😁
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the dry split peas under cold water making sure to check for any imperfections or debris. Once your peas are rinsed and sorted, set them aside while you prepare the soup base.
Next up, introduce the onions, celery, and garlic cloves to the mix. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes or until fragrant and then season with a sprinkle of salt and ground black pepper.
Add the rest of the ingredients except for the lemon juice. Stir the mixture together and bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Once bubbling, dial down the heat to medium-low, seasoning again with salt and pepper.
Cover the pot and allow your soup to simmer for roughly 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally as the soup cooks until the split peas break down and achieve a creamy texture.
The cooking time may vary depending on the type of pot you use and whether your stove is gas or electric. You may need to turn up the heat if you find that the peas are taking a long time to break down.
If the soup is too thick for your liking once the peas break down, add more broth or some water to thin it out. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
Once your soup reaches the desired texture, remove the bay leaf, stir in the lemon juice, and dish into bowls.
Top it off with a drizzle of olive oil, some freshly cut parsley, or some homemade croutons, and voilà! Your flavorful vegetarian split pea soup is ready to serve. (And it pairs perfectly with some warm crusty bread or a hearty salad…mmmmm.)
Crock-Pot or Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup Recipe Vegetarian
Making this crock-pot or slow cooker vegetarian split pea soup requires just a few simple steps:
- Begin by thoroughly rinsing the dry split peas.
- In a large saucepan or skillet, heat the olive oil and then sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Next, transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and add all of the remaining ingredients except for the lemon juice. Give it a good stir and set your crock-pot or slow cooker to high.
- Once the soup reaches a gentle boil, dial down the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 4-5 hours or until the split peas turn tender. If the consistency thickens too much, add more cups of water or broth.
- Finally, remove the bay leaves, stir in the lemon juice, and add more salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for Making the Best Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Recipe
Although this soup requires no fancy culinary skills, here are a few tips to help you make the best version possible.
- MAKE SURE TO RINSE AND SORT: My sister once found a rock in her bag of split peas! So don’t skip this step because the last thing anyone needs is an emergency trip to the dentist because of eating soup. 🤪
- SEASON IN LAYERS: Seasoning with salt and black pepper at different stages builds complexity. And because this vegetarian split pea soup doesn’t have as much salt as it would if you were including ham, you’ll need more than you might typically use.
- A LITTLE LEMON GOES A LONG WAY: The addition of lemon juice at the end is an absolute game-changer for that perfect finishing touch. But you’d be surprised by the impact just a spoonful can have! I’ve made the mistake of adding too much lemon juice and it completely overwhelms the soup’s flavor, so start small and build from there.
- ADJUST THE CONSISTENCY TO YOUR LIKING: My personal preference is for my split pea soup to retain texture from the veggies and broken-down peas. But if you prefer a super creamy soup, use an immersion blender or food processor to blend away the lumps! You can also blend just a portion of the soup and then mix it with the unblended part to strike a balance between the two.
- USE THE TOOLS YOU HAVE: I make this recipe on either the stovetop or in the crock pot, but that’s because I don’t own an Instant Pot or a pressure cooker. If you have those tools on hand and are adept at using them, by all means, make it using the cooking process you prefer! (And then please share your Instant Pot split pea soup instructions with me when you do because this kitchen tool is on my wish list!)
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Variations
What I love about this easy vegetarian split pea soup recipe is that it’s super versatile, so you can mix and match ingredients to suit the season or your mood. While there are countless versions of split pea soup to choose from, here are some ideas to consider trying the next time you make it:
- ADD SOME PLANT-BASED PROTEINS: Replace traditional ham with smoky tempeh or tofu to add an additional satisfying savory element.
- THROW IN SOME LENTILS: Mix in some red or green lentils for an added texture boost. I’ve also turned this recipe into lentil soup by using lentils instead of split peas altogether and it’s equally as delicious!
- UP THE VEGGIES: While carrots, onions, and celery are staples in most pea soup recipes, what vegetables go in split pea soup is completely up to you! Broccoli and spinach are two of my favorite additions, and vegetarian split pea soup with potatoes or sweet potatoes is always a good idea! Plus, adding more veggies is a great way to increase the nutritional value of this green or yellow split pea soup.
- ADD A TOUCH OF COCONUT MILK: If you want a richer soup, substitute some of the broth with creamy coconut milk. This addition gives this soup a velvety texture and makes it feel more indulgent than it actually is.
- EXPERIMENT WITH HERBS AND SPICES: There are no rules when it comes to this recipe, so feel free to play around with flavors you enjoy. I sometimes make this vegan split pea soup recipe with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or curry powder when I want a more robust flavor, or a dash of cayenne pepper when I want a bit more heat.
- STIR IN SOME LIQUID SMOKE: If you want a touch of that smoky flavor that classic split pea soup gets from ham, add a dash of liquid smoke. But as is the case with the lemon juice, a little bit goes a very long way!
- SUBSTITUTE WATER FOR VEGGIE BROTH: If you don’t have vegetable stock on hand, water will work just fine! You may need to up the seasoning a bit to compensate, but your soup will still be delicious. (And if you’re not vegan or vegetarian, chicken broth or chicken stock makes a perfect substitute as well.)
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup Nutrition
How healthy is split pea soup? The great news is that it’s as nutritious as it is delicious!
Split peas, the star ingredient, are a rich source of plant-based protein – just one cup of uncooked split peas contains 48 grams of protein! This not only contributes to muscle health but also provides a satisfying and sustaining energy boost.
Split peas are also loaded with fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps maintain a feeling of fullness. They also contain iron, which is essential for transporting oxygen in the body.
In addition to the split peas, the medley of vegetables in this easy vegetarian split pea soup recipe brings a variety of essential vitamins and health benefits to the table. From vitamin A in carrots and vitamin C in celery to antioxidant-rich onions and immune-boosting garlic, each component plays a role in supporting your overall well-being.
Furthermore, the absence of saturated fats and cholesterol in this vegan version makes it a heart-healthy choice, while its low-calorie profile offers a nourishing option for those mindful of their calorie intake.
So whether you follow a vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free diet, you can enjoy this tasty recipe!
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
Once you’ve made a batch of this thick vegetarian split pea soup, here’s what to do with your leftovers:
- STORING: Let your soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, your soup will remain fresh for 3-4 days.
- FREEZING: Split pea soup freezes very well and will keep for 2-3 months when stored in a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. When ready to eat, allow your soup to defrost in the refrigerator overnight.
- REHEATING: You can reheat your split pea soup on the stovetop, in the microwave, or in the slow cooker. However, you may need to add a little water or broth to bring it back to your desired consistency.
FAQs About Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Here are some answers to commonly asked questions about how to make this simple vegetarian split pea soup, how to store it, and where to find the ingredients for it.
Can split pea soup be left out overnight?
It’s not recommended to leave split pea soup out overnight because bacteria can multiply rapidly at room temperature.
Can you make split pea soup in advance?
Most definitely. In fact, doing so often enhances the soup’s flavors because the ingredients have more time to meld, so it ends up tasting even better the next day! It’s the perfect recipe to meal prep for the week ahead.
Is Vegetarian split pea soup healthy?
Yes, this hearty soup is super healthy. Rich in protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins, this easy vegetarian split pea soup recipe is low in calories and cholesterol and packs a big nutritious punch!
What can I add to bland split pea soup?
Well, if you follow this recipe your soup won’t be bland! 😜
But if you find it needs a little extra oomph, the easiest way to enhance the flavor is to first make sure you’re using enough salt. As I mentioned before, the nature of this soup requires more than you might think.
If that’s not enough, try upping the amount of herbs and spices or adding umami boosters like soy sauce or miso paste, which can add more depth to this flavorful soup.
Can you eat this soup on Weight Watchers?
Yes, yes, and yes again! The best part about this recipe is that it’s one of those slow-simmering soups that has all the flavor and none of the guilt. The only ingredient that has points is olive oil, so by sautéing your veggies in some broth instead of oil you can add this soup to your list of zero-point foods!
What’s the difference between pea soup and split pea soup?
While both “pea soup” and “split pea soup” might sound similar, they actually have a few key differences:
- MAIN INGREDIENT: Vegetarian pea soup is made with whole green peas, which remain mostly intact in the final dish. Split pea soup, on the other hand, is made with dried split peas that cook down to create a heartier, thicker soup.
- TEXTURE: Pea soup is generally thinner and has visible whole peas that retain much of their shape and bite. Split pea soup vegetarian is thicker and creamier due to the split peas breaking down during cooking.
- FLAVOR: Pea soup is typically sweeter and milder in flavor because fresh peas have a less intense taste while split pea soup tends to be earthier and nuttier.
Just remember that the ingredients and culinary techniques used ultimately determine the differences between these two soups.
Can split pea soup be frozen?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and leave some room for expansion. I recommend consuming your frozen soup within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Where can you buy split peas?
You can purchase split peas at various locations, including grocery stores, health food stores, farmers’ markets, or online retailers. They are often found in the dry goods or legumes section at your local grocery store.
Does split pea soup contain dairy?
Some recipes do contain dairy; however, this split pea soup recipe vegetarian does not.
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: The Wrap-Up
So there you have it! A hearty, nourishing, and satisfying vegetarian split pea soup recipe you can enjoy all year long.
With just a handful of veggies and a dash of time, this meatless version of classic split pea soup offers a flavorful alternative that’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or those opting for a healthier twist.
This inexpensive recipe for green split pea soup is one of my very favorite soups and a go-to recipe whenever I’m craving a meal that packs a powerful nutritious punch. It’s always a huge hit at my house and I hope it is at yours, too!
A writer and photographer, Allie Albanese is the founder and curator of Parched Around the World. Here she seeks to tell stories about the intersection of food, drinks, cultures, and traditions in places near and far.
Allie holds a Master’s degree in Journalism from American University and for more than a decade she has worked as a freelance journalist covering wine, cocktails, food, and travel for various publications across the United States and abroad.
If you want to know the way to Allie’s heart, give her a giant bag of peanuts or a jar of peanut butter and she’ll be your best friend for life!
Disclosure: Articles throughout Parched Around the World may contain affiliate links, which means if you purchase something using one of them, I may earn a small commission for sharing items I personally use and love. This comes at no cost to you, but helps support Parched and allows me to keep this website running! For more information, please see my full Privacy Policy.
Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 Bowls
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Craving comfort food without the guilt? This easy vegetarian split pea soup recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a great choice for satisfying health-conscious appetites!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 16 oz bag of dry split peas
- 4–5 large carrots, peeled and cut into rounds
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3–4 celery stalks, chopped
- 5 garlic cloves, sliced, diced or minced — your preference!
- 1/2 cup Italian parsley, chopped + more for garnish
- 1 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/2 – 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 6–8 cups vegetable broth (or a combination of broth and water)
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Rinse peas thoroughly with cold water and do a quick sort to look for any bad peas or random stones.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add carrots and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Add onions, celery, and garlic and cook for another 5 minutes or until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add all of the remaining ingredients except for the lemon juice. Stir together and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, turn the heat down to medium-low and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until peas break down and are completely tender. As the soup begins to thicken, stir more often.
- Once the peas have broken down, add more broth (or water) if the soup is too thick.
- When ready to serve, remove the bay leaves and stir in lemon juice.
- Season again with salt and pepper to taste and ladle into bowls.
- Top with a sprinkling of fresh parsley and enjoy!
Notes
- Five cloves of garlic may sound like a lot, but you’d be surprised how much the flavor of it melds together with the other ingredients. That said, if you’re sensitive to it then by all means use less!
- Personally, I like my split pea soup on the thicker side, which is what using 6 cups of broth will yield. If you prefer a soupier consistency, add another cup or two of veggie broth. You can also use a mixture of water and broth if you prefer — that won’t affect the flavor! (Just a note: If you have any soup left over, you will likely need to add a bit of liquid when you reheat it.)
- If you find that the peas are taking a long time to break down, turn up the heat. Just keep an eye on it and stir more often to ensure the soup doesn’t catch on the bottom of the pot.
- When it comes to the lemon juice, this recipe has been tested using various amounts and the slightest bit too much will overwhelm the soup. I recommend starting with 1/2 tablespoon and adding from there. That said, if you like the taste of the soup before adding the lemon, you can certainly leave it out!
- I keep my garnish simple because I love the flavor of fresh parsley with this soup, but a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkling of dried herbs, some sliced green onions, or homemade croutons make great garnishes as well.
- If you can’t find split peas, lentils make an excellent substitute! While the texture is a bit different because lentils don’t break down the same way that split peas do, the overall soup is delicious.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 120
- Category: Eat
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Soups & Stews
Hi Friends, I’m Allie!
I’m an Italian-German-Southerner with a deep passion for food, drinks & travel. After 15 years in NYC as a Certified Sommelier & cocktail creator, plus a stint in New Zealand learning how to make wine, I’m now back home in Georgia where I blend my love for culinary arts & travel into my work as a writer & photographer. Thank you so much for joining me here at Parched where I look forward to exploring the world together one bite, sip & adventure at a time!
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Hi there, I enjoy reading all of your posts. I wanted to write a little comment to support you.
How nice of you to take the time to write a note, thank you! I truly appreciate it.
Can you make this in an instant pot? if so, are there any modifications?
Great question! You absolutely can. There are no recipe modifications other than to start your Instant Pot using the sauté setting to cook down the veggies a bit before adding the remaining ingredients and switching to the pressure cooker mode. Thanks for asking, I hope you enjoy this recipe! I am actually making a batch of it tonight for myself. 😀