Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish to warm your soul on a chilly day, look no further than this delightful Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my home for years. Each bowl bursts with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings everyone together.

The best part? This Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup is not only delicious but also healthy and nourishing. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that leave you feeling satisfied without weighing you down. Let’s dive into why this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this comforting soup in under an hour.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day, making meal prep a breeze.
• Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with split peas and potatoes, this soup is loaded with fiber and plant-based protein.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spices and toppings to suit your taste—there’s no wrong way to enjoy it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you need to make this delicious Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup:

• 1 ½ cups dried green split peas, picked through and rinsed
• 1 medium yellow onion, small dice
• 2 celery ribs, small dice
• 2 carrots, small dice
• 2 Tablespoons garlic, finely minced
• 3 cups water (or broth)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (see notes for ratio)
• 1 Tablespoon reduced sodium tamari *
• ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1 Tablespoon miso *
• 3 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 Tablespoons dried minced onion flakes
• ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/8 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• 1 ½ teaspoon sea salt (+/-) *
• ¼ to ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Potato croutons (listed in the Creamy Potato Soup recipe)(see recipe here)
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Quinoa Flatbread

Variations

One of the joys of this Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking.

• Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Creamy Texture: Blend a portion of the soup after cooking for a creamier consistency while keeping some chunks.
• Different Veggies: Swap out the baby potatoes for sweet potatoes or throw in any vegetables you have on hand.

How to Make Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup

Step 1: Measure Your Spices

Start by measuring out all your spices into a small bowl and mixing them well. This prep step helps ensure that all those wonderful flavors are evenly distributed throughout your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large ceramic or enamel-lined Dutch oven, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat until they begin to soften—about 5 to 7 minutes. If they start sticking, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or broth to keep things moving smoothly.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices

Once your veggies are tender, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then add your spice mix from Step 1. This step is crucial because sautéing the spices releases their aromatic oils, enhancing their flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Next, pour in the vegetable broth along with tamari, liquid smoke, miso, and water. Bring everything to a boil before reducing it to a gentle simmer. This combination creates a rich base filled with savory goodness.

Step 5: Incorporate Split Peas

Now it’s time to add those green split peas! Stir well so everything is nicely combined. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.

Step 6: Add Baby Potatoes

After 20 minutes have passed, stir in the halved baby potatoes. Give it another taste—this is where you can tweak those flavors if needed! Cover again and continue simmering until both peas and potatoes are tender—about another 20 minutes total.

And there you have it—a heartwarming bowl of Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup ready to be savored! Enjoy each spoonful as it warms your heart and fills your belly with joy.

Pro Tips for Making Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup

Making the perfect soup takes a little practice, but with these helpful tips, you’ll be a pro in no time!

• Choose fresh ingredients: Using fresh vegetables and herbs enhances the overall flavor of your soup, making it taste vibrant and delicious.
• Soak the split peas: If you have extra time, soaking the split peas for a few hours before cooking can help them cook faster and ensure a smoother texture.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Always taste as you go! Adding salt and spices incrementally allows you to achieve your preferred flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Blend for creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, consider blending a portion of the soup after cooking. This creates a velvety base while still leaving some chunky bits for added texture.
• Store leftovers properly: Allow any leftover soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days and tastes even better the next day!

How to Serve Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup

Serving this hearty soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
• Potato croutons: These crunchy toppings bring an unexpected twist and add a satisfying crunch to each spoonful.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Flatbread: Light and fluffy, this flatbread is perfect for dipping into your warm bowl of soup, providing both texture and nutrition.
• Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances out the richness of the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make a beautiful side dish that pairs perfectly with the earthy flavors of split pea soup.
• Whole Grain Crackers: Crunchy whole grain crackers are great for scooping up your soup while adding an extra layer of wholesome goodness.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving tips and ideas, it’s time to enjoy every comforting spoonful of your Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup is perfect for meal prep! Its hearty nature means it stores well and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to label your container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For easy thawing, consider using flat containers or bags that stack neatly in your freezer.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use a microwave-safe container for quick reheating.
• Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of water or vegetable broth if it has thickened too much during storage.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious soup!

Can I make Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge or freezer, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready whenever you need it.

What if I don’t have dried split peas for my Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup?

If you don’t have dried split peas on hand, you can substitute them with canned split peas. Just rinse them well and reduce cooking time since they are already cooked.

How long does Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I add other vegetables to my Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup?

Yes! Feel free to customize this soup by adding other vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Our Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and tamari.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll find this Vegan Split Pea Potato Soup as delightful as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that nourishes both body and soul. Enjoy making it on chilly days, share it with loved ones, and let its comforting aroma fill your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it—your taste buds will thank you!