Vegan Split Pea Soup

Why You’ll Love Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe

This soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. It’s made with affordable, everyday ingredients and requires minimal prep work. The split peas break down beautifully as they simmer, creating a naturally thick and creamy texture without the need for blending or added cream.

You’ll love how filling and protein-rich it is, making it a complete and satisfying vegan meal. It’s also great for batch cooking since the flavors deepen even more the next day. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and entirely plant-based.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large carrot, diced
2 ribs of celery, sliced
2 cups split peas
6 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot with a lid over medium heat.

2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.

3. Stir in the split peas and vegetable broth. Cover the pot with the lid, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 45 minutes. Remove the lid and continue cooking for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the soup to thicken.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 servings.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 55 to 70 minutes

Variations

For extra depth of flavor, add a bay leaf while the soup simmers and remove it before serving. A pinch of smoked paprika can give the soup a subtle smoky note.

If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup before serving. For a chunkier consistency, leave it as is.

You can also add diced potatoes for a heartier version or stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 to 5 days. The soup will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of water or vegetable broth when reheating.

To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use green or yellow split peas?

Yes, both green and yellow split peas work well in this recipe. The flavor is slightly different, but the cooking method remains the same.

Do I need to soak split peas before cooking?

No, split peas do not require soaking. Simply rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

How do I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered a bit longer or blend a portion of it to create a creamier texture.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes. Sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free, the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Potatoes, spinach, kale, or even parsnips make great additions.

Why is my split pea soup too thick?

Split peas naturally absorb a lot of liquid. Simply stir in additional broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I freeze split pea soup?

Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.

How do I prevent the soup from sticking to the pot?

Stir occasionally during cooking and keep the heat at a gentle simmer to prevent sticking.

What can I serve with vegan split pea soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a toasted sandwich for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Vegan Split Pea Soup is a timeless, nourishing dish that’s simple to prepare and full of comforting flavor. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether enjoyed fresh or reheated the next day, this wholesome soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.