SPLIT PEA SOUP
Split Pea Soup is a rustic and wholesome dish that offers comforting nourishment in every spoonful. Crafted from dry split peas, garlic, thyme, onion and vegetable broth, this single-serve version is perfect for a protein-rich and plant-based lunch or light dinner. The peas simmer until tender and breaking down into a creamy texture that requires no dairy or added fat to feel hearty and complete. Aromatic thyme and sautéed garlic add layers of flavour that elevate the simple ingredients. Ideal during colder seasons, this soup is warming, fibre-dense and naturally gluten-free. It’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare in one pot. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread or a green salad, Split Pea Soup makes a satisfying and nourishing meal. It’s a timeless classic reimagined in a minimalist form, nutritious, flavourful and grounded in comfort.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Simmer
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Winter
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
There are the following ingredients for Split Pea Soup:
- ¼ cup dry split peas, rinsed
- 1 cup vegetable broth (low sodium)
- 1 tbsp diced onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 189.7 kcal
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrate: 32.6 g
- Sugar: 2.1 g
- Sodium: 39.4 mg
- Fiber: 11.3 g
- Protein: 11.7 g
- Calcium: 43.8 mg
- Iron: 2.8 mg
- Potassium: 457.3 mg
PREPARATION
These steps are followed for the preparation of Split Pea Soup:
- Rinse And Prep: Rinse the split peas thoroughly under cool water. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a small saucepan, warm 1 tsp olive oil (optional) over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until soft.
- Add Garlic And Thyme: Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Peas And Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the split peas. Stir to combine.
- Simmer The Soup: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are soft and beginning to break down.
- Mash Or Blend: For a smoother soup, mash some of the peas with the back of a spoon or use an immersion blender to purée to your preferred consistency.
- Season And Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into a bowl and serve warm.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
35 minutes
TIPS
- Pre-Soak Peas For Faster Cooking: Soaking peas for 30 minutes reduces simmer time by 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: This gives better control over salt content and lets the thyme and garlic shine.
- Stir Occasionally: Prevent peas from sticking to the bottom of the pan by stirring during simmering.
- Adjust Texture: Blend fully for a creamy finish or leave half unblended for a chunkier consistency.
- Flavour Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving to balance the earthiness.
VARIATIONS
- Add Vegetables: Include diced carrots, celery or courgette to enhance texture and nutrition.
- Smoky Twist: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika or add a drop of liquid smoke for added depth.
- Creamier Version: Blend in a tablespoon of oat cream or coconut milk after cooking.
- Spicy Option: Add chilli flakes or cayenne pepper for a subtle heat.
- Protein Boost: Stir in a spoonful of cooked quinoa or lentils for additional plant-based protein.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Let soup cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Thickens Over Time: Add extra broth or water when reheating, as split peas absorb liquid during storage.
- Batch Cooking Tip: Double the recipe and store individual servings for easy, protein-rich meals throughout the week.