If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and nutritious meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare, Instant Pot Split Pea Soup is your go-to recipe. Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but it’s also a one-pot wonder that delivers deep flavor, satisfying texture, and a whole lot of goodness in every spoonful. What makes it even better? This vegan version is just as rich and comforting as the classic, making it perfect for plant-based eaters or anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, delicious bowl of soup.
The Instant Pot, with its pressure cooking magic, helps break down the peas and vegetables quickly, enhancing the flavor without spending hours stirring over the stove. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe will make you feel like a pro. Let’s dive into all the details and see how to make this vegan split pea soup!
Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Vegan Recipe
This vegan split pea soup is bursting with flavor, thanks to the earthy split peas, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of herbs and spices. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer your soup a little spicier or want to add some greens for extra nutrition, the possibilities are endless. Below is the step-by-step guide for making this perfect soup in your Instant Pot.
Ingredients Needed
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1 ½ Cups Dried Green Split Peas
These are the heart and soul of your soup, providing that signature texture and flavor. Split peas are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent base for a filling meal.
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1 Medium Onion, Diced
Onions bring a natural sweetness and depth of flavor that forms the foundation of your soup’s base.
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2 Large Carrots, Peeled And Diced
Carrots offer a mild sweetness that balances the hearty split peas, along with a pop of color and a dose of vitamin A.
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2 Celery Stalks, Diced
Celery adds a nice crunch and subtle flavor that enhances the overall vegetable medley in the soup.
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3 Garlic Cloves, Minced
Garlic is a must for any savory soup, giving it that aromatic, savory depth that makes it so comforting.
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6 Cups Vegetable Broth
For that rich, savory base, vegetable broth provides all the flavor without the need for animal products. It’s essential for creating the soup’s depth and mouthfeel.
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1 Teaspoon Dried Thyme
Thyme’s earthy, slightly minty flavor pairs perfectly with split peas and gives the soup a warm, savory kick.
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1 Teaspoon Dried Rosemary
Rosemary’s piney, aromatic flavor infuses the soup with a refreshing herby note that enhances the other ingredients.
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1 Bay Leaf
A bay leaf brings a subtle bitterness that balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions and complements the herbs.
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Salt And Pepper To Taste
Seasoning is key! Salt helps bring all the flavors together, while pepper adds just the right amount of heat.
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Optional: 1-2 Cups Of Greens (spinach, Kale, Or Swiss Chard)
For added nutrients and a burst of color, adding leafy greens is a great option. They’ll wilt into the soup, adding extra texture and a pop of freshness.
Cooking Instructions
Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s break down the simple process of making this Instant Pot split pea soup:
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot. Once it’s hot, add a splash of olive oil.
- Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add The Split Peas And Seasonings
- Toss in the dried split peas, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Pour In The Vegetable Broth
- Pour the vegetable broth over the ingredients. Give everything a good stir to ensure the split peas are submerged.
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Pressure Cook
- Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) button and set the time for 15 minutes on high pressure.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for about 10 minutes before carefully moving the valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure.
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Finishing Touches
- Open the Instant Pot, discard the bay leaf, and give the soup a good stir. At this point, you can add any optional greens (like spinach or kale), and stir them in. They’ll wilt and cook in the hot soup in just a couple of minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the ingredients will help elevate your split pea soup, so here’s a quick breakdown of why each one is essential:
- Green Split Peas: These are the foundation of your soup, providing a creamy texture once cooked down. They are packed with fiber and protein, making them filling and perfect for a hearty, wholesome meal. They also absorb the flavors of the broth and herbs beautifully.
- Carrots & Celery: These vegetables create a subtle sweetness and contribute to the soup’s structure, giving it more complexity. They also provide nutrients like beta-carotene (in carrots) and antioxidants (in celery).
- Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Bay Leaf): These herbs are like the backstage crew that ensures everything works harmoniously. They bring out the natural flavors of the vegetables while providing an aromatic profile that’s both comforting and fresh.
- Vegetable Broth: Instead of water, vegetable broth adds umami, a savory flavor that deepens the overall taste. You can also make your own broth for an even more personalized touch.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skip the sautéing step: This is crucial for developing the base flavors of the soup. Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery first helps to release their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Blend it up: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender right in the pot after cooking, or blend the soup in batches in a regular blender. This will give you a velvety smooth consistency without losing any of the flavor.
- Add acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end of cooking brightens the soup and cuts through the richness. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!
- Double the recipe: Split pea soup freezes incredibly well. Consider making a larger batch and freezing portions for later. It’s great for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
This vegan split pea soup is versatile, so feel free to get creative with your variations:
- Add potatoes: For a heartier, starchier soup, add diced potatoes. They’ll absorb the flavors and make the soup even more filling.
- Spicy option: If you like heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the vegetables. A pinch of smoked paprika can also add a smoky kick.
- Coconut milk: For a slightly richer, creamier soup, stir in a can of coconut milk at the end of cooking. It gives the soup a velvety texture and a touch of sweetness.
- Add protein: If you want a protein boost, you can add some cooked quinoa or lentils to the soup.
Final Words
Making split pea soup in your Instant Pot is a game-changer. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Plus, this vegan version makes it accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. The comforting combination of split peas, vegetables, and herbs is like a warm hug in a bowl-perfect for chilly nights or any time you need a nourishing meal.
FAQs
What Ingredients Do I Need For An Instant Pot Vegan Split Pea Soup?
To make a vegan split pea soup in an Instant Pot, you’ll need split peas, vegetable broth, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Optional additions include potatoes, spinach, or vegan sausage for added flavor and texture.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Split Pea Soup In An Instant Pot?
Cooking split pea soup in an Instant Pot typically takes around 15 minutes on high pressure, with an additional 10 minutes for natural pressure release. Prep time before cooking is around 10-15 minutes.
Can I Use Dried Split Peas For Instant Pot Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Yes, dried split peas are perfect for Instant Pot vegan split pea soup. Unlike traditional stovetop methods, the Instant Pot can cook them quickly and efficiently without needing to soak them overnight.
Do I Need To Soak The Split Peas Before Cooking In The Instant Pot?
No, you do not need to soak split peas before cooking them in the Instant Pot. The pressure cooking method makes soaking unnecessary, saving you time and effort.
What Should I Do If The Split Pea Soup Is Too Thick In The Instant Pot?
If your split pea soup turns out too thick, you can simply add extra vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and continue cooking on the ’Sauté’ function if you want to adjust the thickness while simmering.
Can I Make This Instant Pot Vegan Split Pea Soup Without Carrots?
Yes, you can omit the carrots if you prefer. The soup will still be flavorful, but you can add other vegetables like parsnips, sweet potatoes, or zucchini to substitute the carrots or adjust the flavor.
How Do I Make Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Spicier?
To make your Instant Pot vegan split pea soup spicier, you can add ingredients like crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or a diced jalapeño pepper. You can also adjust the seasoning to taste after cooking.
Can I Freeze Instant Pot Vegan Split Pea Soup?
Yes, Instant Pot vegan split pea soup freezes very well. After the soup cools, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of liquid to restore the desired consistency.
Can I Add Vegan Sausage To This Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Recipe?
Yes, adding vegan sausage can enhance the flavor and provide extra protein. Simply chop the sausage into slices and add it along with the vegetables and split peas before pressure cooking.
How Can I Make Instant Pot Split Pea Soup Creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender. Adding coconut milk or a splash of almond milk before serving can also add creaminess.