Easy Split Pea Soup Without Ham Recipe

Split pea soup has always been a classic comfort food. It’s warm, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying, making it a perfect dish for chilly days or when you’re in need of something nourishing. Traditional recipes often call for ham or bacon to add that rich, savory flavor. But what if you’re looking for a lighter, vegetarian version? Don’t worry! You can still have that same satisfying texture and depth of flavor without the meat.

This Easy Split Pea Soup Without Ham Recipe brings all the deliciousness you crave, but with a fresher, plant-based twist. Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, split peas are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Plus, this recipe is simple to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it an excellent go-to option for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Let’s dive into the recipe and break down everything you need to know!

Easy Split Pea Soup Without Ham Recipe

Here’s a straightforward and flavorful split pea soup recipe, packed with depth and comfort, but without the need for ham. The smoky flavor that typically comes from the ham is replaced with a mix of spices and vegetables, creating an entirely plant-based, cozy, and wholesome dish.

Ingredients Needed

To make this delicious soup, you’ll need:

• 2 Cups Dried Split Peas

  These are the heart and soul of the soup. Split peas cook down to a soft, creamy texture, making the soup thick and satisfying.

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  Onion adds a natural sweetness and depth to the base of the soup.

• 2 large carrots, diced

  Carrots bring a slight sweetness and an additional layer of texture to balance the peas.

• 2 celery stalks, diced

  Celery adds a subtle crunch and an earthy flavor.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

  Garlic boosts the flavor profile, adding an aromatic richness to the soup.

• 1 Bay Leaf

  Bay leaves impart a subtle, aromatic flavor during cooking.

• 1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme

  Thyme is a must for a savory, herbal note that enhances the split peas’ natural flavor.

• 1 Teaspoon Turmeric

  Turmeric not only gives the soup a beautiful golden hue, but it also adds an earthy, slightly peppery warmth.

• 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Cumin

  Cumin adds a mild smokiness that mimics the flavor typically imparted by ham.

• 6 Cups Vegetable Broth

  Vegetable broth is a flavorful base, and it complements the vegetables and split peas without overwhelming the dish.

• Salt and pepper, to taste

  Adjust the seasoning according to your preference for a perfect balance of flavors.

• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil

  Used to sauté the veggies, giving the soup an aromatic foundation and richness.

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, but highly recommended)

  A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness of the soup.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Rinse the split peas thoroughly in cold water, removing any stones or debris. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Mince the garlic and set it aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Stir frequently and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the spices: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, cumin, turmeric, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well, letting the spices toast slightly in the hot oil. This step helps release their natural oils and intensifies the flavor.
4. Simmer the soup: Add the rinsed split peas, bay leaf, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer, uncovered, for 45-60 minutes, or until the split peas are soft and the soup has thickened to your liking.
5. Finish the soup: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, creating a smooth and creamy texture, but leave some chunks for texture. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice. The lemon juice really adds a fresh, bright contrast that balances the richness of the split peas.
7. Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of paprika for added flair. Enjoy the heartiness and warmth of your homemade soup!

Ingredient Insights

• Split Peas: These little legumes are packed with protein and fiber, making them an excellent base for a vegetarian or vegan soup. They’re also rich in B vitamins and minerals like iron and potassium. They cook down to a creamy consistency, providing a comforting, velvety texture to the soup.
• Vegetable Broth: Using a high-quality vegetable broth adds a depth of flavor that mimics the savory richness you would typically get from ham. You can make your own broth at home or use a store-bought version, but be mindful of the sodium levels.
• Turmeric: This golden spice isn’t just for color; it’s also packed with anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor that pairs perfectly with the other spices in this soup.

Expert Tips

• Soak the Split Peas: Although split peas don’t require soaking, doing so for a couple of hours before cooking can reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. This step can help you achieve an even smoother soup.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you’re making a large batch of soup, don’t overcrowd the pot. Giving the ingredients plenty of space will help them cook evenly and release their flavors into the broth.
• Simmer Slowly: Split pea soup benefits from a slow simmer. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors develop. If you’re in a hurry, however, a quick simmer will still yield a tasty result.
• Customize the Texture: If you like a super smooth soup, go ahead and blend it fully. For a chunkier texture, blend only a portion and leave the rest intact. This gives you the best of both worlds.

Recipe Variations

• Add leafy greens: Stir in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking for added color and nutrients.
• Spicy kick: If you like heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Add coconut milk: For a creamier, slightly sweeter soup, you can swirl in some full-fat coconut milk. This adds a lovely richness to the soup and makes it even more comforting.
• Roasted vegetables: Roast the carrots and celery before adding them to the soup. Roasting enhances the sweetness and caramelizes the vegetables, adding extra depth to the soup’s flavor.

Final Words

This split pea soup without ham is proof that you don’t need meat to make a delicious, hearty soup. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a comforting bowl of nourishment that’s rich in flavor and texture. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to enjoy a lighter version of a classic dish, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.