🥣 The Best Split Pea Vegan Soup (Smoky & Hearty Recipe!)
🥣 The Best Split Pea Vegan Soup (Smoky & Hearty Recipe!) 🥣
Split pea soup is the definition of comfort in a bowl. It is thick, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. It is the perfect meal for a cool autumn day. However, the classic recipe gets its deep, savory flavor from a ham hock or bacon.
But what if you are on a vegan diet? The wonderful news is that you can make a split pea vegan soup that is just as smoky and delicious. You do not need any meat to create that classic, comforting taste. The secret is all in the spices.
This guide will give you a simple, one-pot recipe. It is packed with plant-based protein and flavor. This will become your new go-to soup for cozy weather. Let's start cooking! 🌱
🤔 What is the Secret to a "Meaty," Smoky Flavor?
The key to a great split pea vegan soup is building a deep, savory, and smoky flavor base. We can easily mimic the taste of ham using a few clever plant-based ingredients. These pantry staples are your secret weapons.
Smoked Paprika is the most important ingredient. It provides a rich, smoky flavor that is very similar to bacon. Do not substitute it with regular paprika. The "smoked" variety is essential for this recipe.
Liquid Smoke is another great tool. Just a few drops will add an intense, authentic smoky flavor. A little goes a long way. A splash of soy sauce or tamari also adds a savory, umami depth that enhances the "meaty" quality.
✅ How Do You Make the Best Split Pea Vegan Soup?
This simple, one-pot recipe is a breeze to make. It requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor. This hearty split pea vegan soup is a perfect, affordable meal. It is packed with protein and fiber.
What Ingredients Do You Need?
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 pound (16 oz / 450g) of dried green split peas, rinsed
- 8 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: A few drops of liquid smoke
What Are the Instructions?
1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 7-10 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
2. Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Then, stir in the smoked paprika and thyme.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
4. Let it Cook: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 60 to 90 minutes. Stir it occasionally. It is ready when the split peas are very tender and have started to break down.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend about half the soup. Stir in a few drops of liquid smoke, if using. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot with some crusty bread for dipping. 🔥