Warm your soul with a bowl of Vegan Spicy Split Pea Soup that’s bursting with flavor and packed with nutrients! This delightful dish combines the earthy goodness of split peas with the vibrant kick of spices, making it the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or a hearty lunch. In just under an hour, you can whip up a satisfying meal that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also leaves you feeling nourished and fulfilled. Ready to discover the secrets to creating this irresistible soup? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegan
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup split peas
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle cumin and cayenne pepper over the vegetables, stirring to coat and release their aromatic oils. Cook for about 30 seconds to enhance the spices' flavor.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed split peas. Drop in the bay leaf and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the peas from sticking to the bottom.
- Check the consistency of the peas. They should be soft and beginning to break down, creating a creamy texture. If needed, add more vegetable broth or water.
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a spicier soup, add extra cayenne pepper.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture. Alternatively, blend half the soup in a standard blender and return to the pot.
- Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Split Peas: Always rinse your split peas thoroughly to remove any debris or stones. This simple step ensures a clean and delicious soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and slightly golden to enhance their sweetness, which adds depth to your soup.
- Adjust the Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference. Start with less if you're unsure, and add more to taste as the soup simmers.
- Simmer for Flavor: Let the soup simmer for the full 35-40 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the split peas to break down into a creamy texture.
- Blending Technique: For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This keeps some texture while creating a smooth base. If using a standard blender, blend only half and return it to the pot.
- Garnish Creatively: Elevate your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil before serving. It adds a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor!
- Storage Tips: Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for later enjoyment. Just reheat and enjoy when you crave a comforting bowl!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
