There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup that wraps you in comfort like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. It’s the kind of meal that warms not just your body, but your soul. My absolute favorite is vegetarian split pea soup – it’s hearty, full of flavor, and brings back such fond memories. I remember the first time I made it during a rainy weekend, the aroma of simmering vegetables and spices filling my kitchen. It felt like a hug in a bowl! The combination of tender split peas with aromatic thyme and the sweetness of carrots creates a unique flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when I just need a little comfort food. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked, too!
Ingredients for Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious vegetarian split pea soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup split peas, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
These simple ingredients come together to create a hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how each element contributes to the overall taste, with the split peas providing that comforting base and the veggies adding a lovely texture and sweetness. Don’t skip the thyme – it adds a wonderful aroma that makes the soup truly special!
How to Prepare Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Making this vegetarian split pea soup is as easy as pie! With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a deliciously hearty meal ready in no time. Let’s dive right in!
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
First things first, grab that large pot and place it over medium heat. You’ll want to add a splash of olive oil to help those veggies shine. Toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté them together for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion turns translucent and the veggies soften just a bit. You’re aiming for a cozy, aromatic base that sets the stage for the soup. Trust me, this step makes a world of difference in flavor!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients and Simmer
Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the rinsed split peas right into that fragrant veggie mix, followed by the vegetable broth. Don’t forget the dried thyme and bay leaf! Give it all a good stir, and then bring the pot to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 40 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, giving it an occasional stir to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. The split peas will soften and create that lovely thick texture we all crave – yum!
Step 3: Blend and Season
Once the peas are nice and tender, it’s blending time! Carefully remove the bay leaf and pour the soup into a blender. You can also use an immersion blender right in the pot if you have one – so much easier! Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a splash of broth or water if needed. After blending, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper. A little sprinkle of each can really elevate the flavors and make your soup sing! And voila, you’re ready to serve this delightful bowl of comfort!
Tips for Success
To ensure your vegetarian split pea soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips I’ve picked up along the way. First, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables; however, freshly chopped ones bring more flavor and texture to the soup. If you want to spice things up a bit, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a little kick!
Another great trick is to let the soup sit for a bit after blending. It thickens nicely as it cools, making it even heartier. If you find the soup too thick, just add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. And for those of you who love a bit of crunch, top your soup with some crispy croutons or toasted pumpkin seeds just before serving. It adds a delightful contrast to the smoothness of the soup!
Lastly, don’t be afraid to experiment with herbs! Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can brighten up the flavors beautifully. Remember, cooking is all about making it your own, so have fun with it!
Nutritional Information
This vegetarian split pea soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a quick rundown of the estimated nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 200
- Protein: 12 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fat: 2 grams
- Saturated Fat: 0 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Potassium: 600 mg
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Vitamin A: 150 IU
- Vitamin C: 5 mg
- Calcium: 40 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
These values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, this soup is a healthy choice, full of fiber and protein to keep you satisfied. Plus, it’s low in fat and cholesterol-free, making it a great option for anyone looking to eat healthier. Enjoy your delicious bowl of goodness while knowing it’s good for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this vegetarian split pea soup! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Hearty and Nourishing: Each bowl is filled with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that warms you up from the inside out.
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious soup ready in under an hour – perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of split peas, veggies, and aromatic herbs creates a cozy, satisfying flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe.
- Healthy Choice: Low in fat and cholesterol-free, it’s a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy anytime.
Honestly, once you try this recipe, you’ll see why it’s such a beloved dish in my home!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This vegetarian split pea soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day or two in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water while reheating to loosen it up a bit, as it tends to thicken in the fridge.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
There are so many ways to give your soup a personal touch! If you want to kick it up a notch, consider adding some fresh herbs like parsley or dill right before serving for a burst of freshness. A dash of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper can bring some heat to the party! You could even stir in a little lemon juice or zest for a bright, tangy flavor that complements the earthy peas beautifully. Don’t hesitate to experiment – your taste buds will thank you!
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, it is! Freezing this vegetarian split pea soup is a great way to enjoy it later. Once it’s completely cooled, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. If it seems a bit thick after freezing, simply stir in a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy your delicious homemade soup whenever you need a comforting meal!
Equipment Needed
Before you dive into making this delicious vegetarian split pea soup, let’s gather the essential equipment you’ll need:
- Large pot: This is where all the magic happens! You’ll be sautéing the vegetables and simmering the soup in this trusty pot, so make sure it’s big enough to hold all those tasty ingredients.
- Blender: A blender is key for achieving that silky smooth texture we all love in soup. You can use a traditional blender or an immersion blender right in the pot for convenience!
Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable, so let’s get ready to whip up some comfort in a bowl!
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Vegetarian Split Pea Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Blender
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 cup split peas rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- 1 stalk celery chopped
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
Instructions
- In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add the split peas, vegetable broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf and blend the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.