If you’re in the mood for a comforting and nourishing meal, this Hearty Split Pea Soup is the perfect choice. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian blender soup, a cozy weeknight dish, or even a vegan comfort food option, this recipe fits the bill. With its smooth texture and rich flavors, this split pea soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
This easy recipe showcases the versatility of split peas, making it a great option for those wanting a pea soup without ham or even a delightful yellow split peas recipe. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare with your blender, taking the fuss out of traditional cooking methods. It’s a fantastic way to whip up a creamy blender soup that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Hearty Comfort in a Bowl
On a chilly day, nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of hearty split pea soup. This nourishing dish brings together the earthy flavors of dried green or yellow split peas, enhanced by aromatic vegetables.
Perfect for vegetarians, this creamy blender soup can be made without ham, making it versatile for various dietary preferences. For those seeking a vegan comfort food option or a comforting bowl of soup for a busy weeknight, it fits the bill perfectly.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, making it an ideal choice for easy crockpot soups or quick weeknight meals that satisfy and nourish. Enjoying a homemade bowl of split pea soup allows for a delightful culinary experience without the fuss.
Preparation Made Easy
Creating this delicious soup is straightforward, beginning with a few simple ingredients. The process starts with rinsing and sorting dried split peas, followed by chopping up some fresh vegetables like onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
These aromatics form the foundation of flavor, and when sautéed, they create a fragrant base that elevates the entire soup.
Using a blender to achieve a creamy texture simplifies the cooking process. After simmering the ingredients, blending gives the soup a smooth consistency, making it a delightful option for those who enjoy creamy blender soups.
Cooking to Perfection
With the split peas and vegetables simmering in broth, the magic happens. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the peas soften into a comforting texture.
For those who prefer a chunkier soup, blending only partially allows for a harmonious balance between creamy and hearty.
This adaptability makes it a favorite among those looking for a hearty meatless meal or a tasty soup with dried peas that can be served warm on a cold evening.
Garnishes That Shine
A bowl of split pea soup is not complete without garnishes. Crispy bits of ham add a savory crunch that complements the smoothness of the soup, while fresh pea shoots provide a burst of color and freshness.
For those opting for a vegetarian or vegan dish, leaving out the ham and focusing on vibrant pea shoots makes for an appealing presentation.
These finishing touches not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the overall dining experience, making every bowl inviting and delectable.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread. The combination of warm, hearty soup and crunchy bread creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.
Whether enjoyed at home, shared with family, or served at gatherings, this soup is sure to please. It’s also an excellent option for meal prep, as it can be stored and enjoyed later, making it a go-to choice for slow cooker soups.
With each spoonful, this hearty split pea soup offers warmth and comfort, a testament to the joys of homemade cooking.
Nutritional Benefits
This split pea soup not only delights the palate but also provides a wealth of nutritional benefits. With its high fiber content and plant-based protein, it can be a valuable part of a balanced diet.
Each bowl offers a hearty dose of nourishment, making it a smart choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying satisfying meals.
The low calorie count also means you can indulge guilt-free, making it a perfect choice for anyone wanting to enjoy comfort food without compromising on health.
Easy Blender Split Pea Soup Recipe
This split pea soup is a thick, hearty dish made with dried green or yellow split peas and aromatic vegetables. It’s rich in flavor and can be made meatless or with ham, depending on your preference, making it a fantastic option for both hearty meatless meals and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried split peas, rinsed and sorted
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Crispy ham bits or fresh pea shoots for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the dried split peas and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, add a splash of water or olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Cook the Peas: Add the rinsed split peas, vegetable broth or water, thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes, or until peas are tender.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth or transfer in batches to a blender if desired. For a chunkier texture, blend partially.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with crispy ham bits or fresh pea shoots if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 38g