Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe: A Hearty Plant-Based Comfort Classic

Looking for the perfect Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup recipe? This plant-based version of the classic comfort food delivers all the warmth and heartiness you’d expect, without animal products. Created by home chef Megan, this recipe transforms humble split peas into a creamy, satisfying soup that even non-vegans will love.

Why Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe Stands Out

This isn’t just any vegan split pea soup – it’s a carefully crafted recipe that combines simple ingredients to create complex flavors. The secret lies in the perfect balance of herbs and the slow-cooking process that allows the split peas to break down into a naturally creamy consistency.

The Magic Behind Perfect Vegan Split Pea Soup

When developing this Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup, careful attention was paid to replacing traditional ham-based flavors with plant-based alternatives that deliver equal satisfaction. The result is a soup that’s:

• Rich in protein and fiber
• Naturally creamy without dairy
• Budget-friendly
• Meal-prep friendly
• Perfect for cold weather

Essential Ingredients for Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup

Main Components:

• 2 cups dried green split peas
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves

Seasonings and Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How to Make Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Split Peas

• Rinse split peas thoroughly
• Sort through them to remove any debris
• No pre-soaking required

1. Create the Aromatic Base

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat
• Sauté onions, carrots, and celery for 5-7 minutes
• Add garlic and cook for another minute

1. Build the Soup

• Add split peas, vegetable broth, and seasonings
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer
• Cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally

1. Finish and Season

• Remove bay leaves
• Add lemon juice
• Adjust seasonings to taste

Pro Tips for Perfect Vegan Split Pea Soup

Making Megan’s signature split pea soup requires attention to detail. Here are some expert tips:

1. Texture Control

• For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender
• For a chunky texture, leave as is
• Add more broth if the soup becomes too thick

1. Flavor Enhancement

• Use smoked paprika and liquid smoke for a smoky flavor
• Add fresh herbs at the end for brightness
• Don’t skip the lemon juice – it balances the flavors

Storage and Reheating

This vegan split pea soup recipe keeps well:

• Refrigerator: Up to 5 days in an airtight container
• Freezer: Up to 3 months
• Reheat: Gently on the stovetop, adding water if needed

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup with:

• Crusty whole-grain bread
• Fresh herbs garnish
• Croutons
• A drizzle of olive oil
• Side Salad

Recipe Variations

Customize Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup to your taste:

• Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness
• Include fresh spinach at the end
• Experiment with different herbs
• Add plant-based sausage for extra protein

Nutritional Benefits

This vegan split pea soup is not just delicious, it’s also incredibly nutritious:

• High in plant-based protein
• Rich in fiber
• Contains essential vitamins and minerals
• Low in fat
• Budget-friendly protein source

Meal Prep and Freezing Tips

Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup is perfect for meal prep:

• Make a double batch
• Portion into individual containers
• Label with date and contents
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator
• Reheat gently, adding liquid as needed

Why Make This Soup?

Megan’s Vegan Split Pea Soup Recipe offers:

• Easy preparation
• Affordable ingredients
• Batch cooking potential
• Freezer-friendly portions
• Healthy comfort food

This hearty vegan split pea soup proves that plant-based cooking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe delivers comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.