As the cooler months approach, comfort food begins to take center stage in my kitchen. One chilly afternoon, I found myself craving something hearty yet wholesome — that’s when I decided to whip up a batch of creamy yellow split pea soup. This delightful vegan twist on traditional corn chowder combines the earthy richness of split peas with the sweet pop of fresh corn and the warm embrace of smoked paprika. With no soaking required and minimal prep time, this soup quickly became my go-to recipe for busy weeknights and cozy gatherings alike.
Imagine ladling a bowl of velvety goodness, the vibrant yellow hue inviting your senses, while the smoky undertones wrap you in warmth. Not only is this soup easy to prepare, but it’s also packed with plant-based protein, making it a nourishing choice for anyone tired of the fast-food cycle. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to explore the joys of homemade meals, this creamy vegan yellow split pea soup is sure to delight!
Why Is Yellow Split Pea Soup So Popular?
Comforting and Hearty: This creamy soup embraces you with each spoonful, creating a deliciously warming experience perfect for chilly days.
Quick Preparation: With no soaking required, you can whip it up in minimal time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with plant-based protein and fiber, this soup keeps you feeling full and energized without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile Base: Customize it with your preferred vegetables or spices, ensuring that each bowl is uniquely yours.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve it at gatherings or cozy dinners; it’s bound to impress both vegans and meat-lovers alike!
Yellow Split Pea Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil – Provides a rich base for sautéing aromatics. Substitution: Avocado oil for a different flavor profile.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Substitution: Shallots or leeks for a milder taste.
• Celery – Contributes freshness and a slight crunch. Substitution: Fennel for a unique twist.
• Garlic – Brings aromatic, savory notes. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder as a last resort.
• Vegetable Broth – Infuses the soup with moisture and flavor. Substitution: Homemade broth or water for a lighter taste.
For the Soup
• Yellow Split Peas – The main ingredient, providing creaminess and plant-based protein. Note: No soaking required before cooking.
• Yukon Gold Potato – Thickens the soup and adds creaminess. Substitute with sweet potato for added sweetness.
• Fresh Corn Kernels – Sweetness and texture booster. Substitute: Canned or frozen corn if fresh is unavailable.
• Smoked Paprika – Imparts a rich, smoky flavor. Use regular paprika for less smokiness.
• Sea Salt – Enhances all flavors; adjust to taste.
For the Creaminess
• Cashew Cream – Adds creaminess without dairy. Substitute: Coconut cream for a non-nut alternative or omit altogether for a lighter soup.
• Apple Cider Vinegar – Brightens flavors and balances richness. Experiment with lemon juice for a zesty kick.
How to Make Yellow Split Pea Soup
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Make Cashew Cream: Blend raw cashews with water and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. This will add a luscious texture to the soup; set aside for later.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until they’re tender (about 5-7 minutes). Then, toss in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the yellow split peas, diced Yukon Gold potato, fresh corn, smoked paprika, and a generous pinch of sea salt. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally, until the split peas are tender and creamy.
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Blend: Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer, blend half of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
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Finish Soup: Stir in the reserved cashew cream and apple cider vinegar, letting the flavors meld for a few minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed to ensure it’s deliciously balanced.
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Serve: Ladle the warm, comforting soup into bowls, and garnish with your favorite toppings for a delightful experience.
Optional: Top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an added flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Yellow Split Pea Soup
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Stir Often: Stir the soup occasionally during simmering to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking to the pot.
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Thickness Control: Adjust the soup’s thickness by blending more or less—start with less broth for a creamsier consistency.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and corn enhances flavor significantly; opt for fresh whenever possible for the best results.
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Blend Wisely: For a nice texture, only partially puree the soup. Leave some split peas intact for a delightful bite.
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Season Well: Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving; a pinch more salt can make all the difference in flavor.
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Storage Secret: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage without sacrificing quality.
Make Ahead Options
These creamy yellow split pea soups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days in advance, which saves valuable time on busy weekdays. Additionally, you can prepare the cashew cream and keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, simply sauté the aromatics, combine all ingredients, and simmer as directed. For optimal quality, avoid blending until you’re ready to finish the soup, as this keeps the texture just right. You’ll have a flavorful, nourishing meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort!
Yellow Split Pea Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delightful soup, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste!
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Green Split Peas: Swap yellow split peas for green for a different look and slightly earthier flavor.
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Roasted Veggies: Add diced roasted carrots or bell peppers for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
Roasting brings out the natural sugars in vegetables, elevating your soup’s depth. -
Herbal Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil to add fragrant layers to your bowl.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs can transform the flavor profile, making it a burst of freshness! -
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for pleasing heat and excitement.
A touch of spice can warm you from the inside out, balancing the creamy richness perfectly. -
Nutty Flare: Blend in a couple of tablespoons of tahini or almond butter for a unique nutty taste.
This would infuse a delightful creaminess while soothing the palate with its rich essence. -
Coconut Vibe: Use coconut milk instead of cashew cream for a tropical twist that’s equally creamy.
This variation lends a hint of sweetness and complements the smoky flavor beautifully. -
Zesty Delight: Sprinkle with fresh lime juice just before serving for a bright, zesty finish.
The acidity cuts through the richness, adding a refreshing contrast that invites a second helping. -
Hearty Add-ins: Consider adding quinoa or barley for added texture and heartiness in your soup.
Grains not only boost nutrition but also make this comforting dish a filling meal all on its own!
What to Serve with Yellow Split Pea Soup?
The warmth of a steaming bowl of soup deserves complements that elevate the entire meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, a hearty loaf adds comforting texture and absorbs the rich flavors of the soup.
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Grilled Avocado Toast: This creamy yet crunchy addition brings out the soup’s smoky undertones, creating a delightful combination of textures.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness, offering a zesty contrast to the comforting warmth.
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Roasted Veggies: Incorporating seasonal roasted vegetables offers a sweet, caramelized flavor that beautifully enhances the soup’s earthy notes.
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Vegan Cornbread: Soft, sweet cornbread acts as a delightful partner, mirroring the corn in the soup and adding a comforting touch.
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Chili Lime Roasted Chickpeas: These crunchy bites add a burst of flavor and protein, making for a satisfying crunch as an accompaniment.
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Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine complements the smoky flavors of the soup, enhancing the overall taste sensation in every bite.
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Coconut Sorbet: For something sweet and refreshing, this dairy-free dessert provides a cool contrast to the warm soup, finishing the meal on a delightful note.
How to Store and Freeze Yellow Split Pea Soup
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 5 days. This keeps the soup fresh, allowing you to enjoy your comforting yellow split pea soup throughout the week.
- Freezer: Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
- Portioning: Consider freezing in single serving sizes for easy meals on busy days. Just pull one out, reheat, and enjoy!
Yellow Split Pea Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of yellow split peas should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using dried yellow split peas, which are readily available at most grocery stores. Look for peas that are uniform in size and free of dark spots, as these may indicate age or spoilage. No soaking is required before cooking, which makes them perfect for quick weeknight meals!
How should I store leftover yellow split pea soup?
You can store leftover yellow split pea soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before sealing it. It’s always a good idea to label your containers with the date, so you can keep track of how long they’ve been stored.
Can I freeze yellow split pea soup?
Absolutely! Yellow split pea soup freezes beautifully. Store it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Your soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to restore its creamy consistency.
What if my soup is too thick?
If you find your yellow split pea soup has become too thick after cooking, don’t worry! Simply add vegetable broth or water gradually, stirring until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s overly thick after freezing and thawing, the same method applies. This keeps your comforting soup smooth and enjoyable!
Can this soup be made nut-free?
Yes, indeed! If you need a nut-free version of this recipe, you can omit the cashew cream altogether or substitute it with coconut cream for a dairy-free option. If you prefer not to use coconut, just leave out the cream for a lighter soup. Adding an extra splash of vegetable broth can enhance the soup’s moisture.
Is this soup suitable for pets?
While the ingredients in yellow split pea soup are healthy for humans, it’s best to avoid giving it to pets. The seasonings, particularly garlic and salt, can be harmful to pets. It’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your pet’s diet.
Comforting Yellow Split Pea Soup with Smoky Corn Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blend raw cashews with water and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy. Set aside for later.
- In a large pot, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and celery, cooking until tender (about 5-7 minutes). Toss in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, yellow split peas, diced Yukon Gold potato, fresh corn, smoked paprika, and sea salt. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the split peas are tender.
- Using an immersion blender, partially puree the soup until desired consistency. Alternatively, blend half of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the reserved cashew cream and apple cider vinegar, letting the flavors meld for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls, and garnish with your favorite toppings.