This simple vegetarian split pea soup needs no ham to be hearty — dried green split peas and stock simmer into a thick, spoon-coating potage that's deeply satisfying with nothing but salt and pepper. It's budget cooking that tastes like restraint paid off.
Who says you need a ham hock for a rich, soul-soothing split pea soup? This recipe is here to prove that the humble split pea is a star all on its own. We’re skipping the smoky additives and letting that distinct, earthy pea flavor shine through in this incredibly simple, hearty, and comforting soup. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, and the best part? It practically makes itself. Get ready for a thick, creamy bowl of pure comfort that celebrates simplicity at its finest.
Ingredients
• MAKES: 4 servingsTIME: About 1 1/2 hours
• 2 cups / 400g (14.1 oz) dried green split peas, rinsed and picked over
• 6 cups (1440 ml) / 1.4L vegetable stock or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Combine the rinsed split peas and vegetable stock in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.2. Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer. Stir occasionally until the peas are completely soft and have started to break down, which should take about 45 to 60 minutes.3. Once cooked, mash the soup with a potato masher or fork for a rustic texture. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender.4. Reheat the soup if necessary, adding more stock or water to reach your desired thickness. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
Nutritional Information
• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
• Calories: ~350 kcal
• Protein: ~20g
• Fiber: ~18g
• A fantastic source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, iron, and potassium.
Pro Tips
• If the soup becomes too thick upon standing, simply stir in more vegetable stock or water when reheating until it reaches your desired consistency.
• For a heartier meal, finish each bowl with a handful of crunchy croutons, a scoop of cooked rice, or a swirl of olive oil.
• Create a deeper flavor base by sautéing a mirepoix (1 chopped onion, 1 carrot, 1 celery stalk) in the pot before adding the split peas and stock.
• For a Caribbean-inspired twist, use yellow split peas and add 2 cups (480 ml) of chopped sweet potato or pumpkin about 20 minutes into the simmer time. Serve with a squeeze of lime.
FAQ
Q: How can I make this soup smoky without using ham
A: To add a delicious smoky flavor without any meat, try stirring in a 1/2 teaspoon (10 ml / 0.3 fl oz) of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Sautéing the optional mirepoix with a pinch of smoked salt also adds a wonderful depth.
Q: Is this vegetarian split pea soup a good source of protein
A: Absolutely! Split peas are a fantastic plant-based protein source. A single serving of this hearty soup provides approximately 20 grams (0.71 oz / 20.1 g) of protein, making it a very filling and nutritious meal.
Q: How long does this vegetarian split pea soup last in the fridge
A: You can store this soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It will thicken as it cools, so simply add a splash of vegetable stock or water when reheating to restore its creamy consistency.
Q: Is this split pea soup recipe vegan
A: Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and dairy-free as written. It uses only split peas, vegetable stock or water, and seasonings. Just be sure to use a certified vegan vegetable stock if that is a concern.
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Simple Vegetarian Split Pea Soup (No Ham)
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the rinsed split peas and vegetable stock in a medium saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. 2.
- Reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer.
- Stir occasionally until the peas are completely soft and have started to break down, which should take about 45 to 60 minutes. 3.
- Once cooked, mash the soup with a potato masher or fork for a rustic texture. For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or carefully transfer the soup to a standard blender. 4. Reheat the soup if necessary, adding more stock or water to reach your desired thickness.
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste before serving hot.
