There’s nothing like a warm, hearty soup to bring the family together on a chilly evening. This Vegetarian Split Pea Soup, with its vibrant green hue and chunky, tender vegetables, is the perfect dish for those cozy family dinners or a delightful addition to a festive seasonal gathering. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a creative way to enjoy a comforting, homemade meal that nourishes both the body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried green split peas, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, stirring until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potato. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for about 1 hour, or until the split peas and vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture, or blend about half of it in a blender carefully and return to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.
Helpful Tips
For a creamier texture, blend more of the soup or add a splash of coconut milk. You can also add other veggies like spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking process for added nutrients. If you are short on time, use pre-chopped vegetables or a food processor to speed up the prep work.
Storage Instructions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened too much.
Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have split peas, you can use lentils as an alternative. Adjust cooking time accordingly as lentils may cook faster.
Pairings
This hearty Vegetarian Split Pea Soup pairs beautifully with a fresh, tangy salad like a lemony arugula and beet salad. For drinks, try a refreshing iced tea in the warmer months or a mulled cider during colder seasons for a cozy touch.
We hope you enjoy making and sharing this delightful Vegetarian Split Pea Soup as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your creations using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. We’d love to see your beautiful bowls of soup and hear your feedback on our website Zynahz. Remember to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest recipes and follow us on social media for daily inspiration. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more family meals filled with love and creativity!
