Vegan split pea soup made in the crock pot is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, packed with plant-based protein, and budget-friendly. Let’s dive into how to make the best vegan split pea soup in your crock pot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan split pea soup is:
- Simple to prepare: With minimal chopping and just one pot to clean, this recipe is perfect for weeknights.
- Budget-friendly: Split peas are an affordable pantry staple, making this a cost-effective meal.
- Packed with flavor: Aromatic vegetables, herbs, and spices create a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
- Nutritious and satisfying: Loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, this soup will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Dried green split peas in a bowl
Vegetable broth being poured into measuring cup- A yellow onion finely chopped on a cutting board
- Diced carrots and celery on a cutting board
- Minced Garlic
- Dried bay leaves in a spice jar
- Dried thyme in a spoon
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetable broth being poured into measuring cup
A yellow onion finely chopped on a cutting board
Diced carrots and celery on a cutting board
Minced Garlic
Dried bay leaves in a spice jar
Dried thyme in a spoonHow to Make Vegan Split Pea Soup in a Crock Pot
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Rinse the split peas: Place the dried split peas in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris.
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Add everything to the crock pot: In your crock pot, combine the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, chopped onion, diced carrots and celery, minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Cook on low heat: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or until the split peas are tender and have mostly broken down.
Chef’s Tip: For a thicker soup, cook with the lid slightly ajar for the last hour of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate.
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Adjust seasonings: Once the soup is cooked, remove the bay leaves. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. You can leave it chunky, or blend until completely smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
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Serve and enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt.
Vegan Split Pea Soup FAQs
Can I use different colored split peas?
Yes, you can use yellow split peas or a combination of green and yellow. Keep in mind that yellow split peas tend to break down more easily than green.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! Simply follow the same instructions, but simmer the soup in a large pot over low heat for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the split peas are tender.
How do I store leftover vegan split pea soup?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
What are some tasty toppings for vegan split pea soup?
Get creative! Try topping your soup with:
- Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives
- A swirl of vegan sour cream or yogurt
- Croutons or toasted bread crumbs
- A drizzle of olive oil or chili oil
- A sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor
Why are my split peas not softening?
Sometimes, older split peas may take longer to cook. If your split peas are still firm after the recommended cooking time, add an additional cup of broth and continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour. You can also try using an immersion blender to help break down any remaining firm peas.
This vegan split pea soup is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy!
