Savory Ginger Split Pea Soup

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 1 hour
🍽 Serves: 6
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Discover the comforting warmth of Savory Ginger Split Pea Soup. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings, blending aromatic spices with wholesome ingredients to create a nourishing bowl of goodness. It’s a unique twist on a classic favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your home.

Ingredients for Savory Ginger Split Pea Soup

Olive oil is the base for sautéing, providing a subtle richness. The onion adds sweetness and depth, while garlic brings a pungent, aromatic kick. Fresh ginger is the star, offering warmth and a subtle zest that sets this soup apart. Split peas are the backbone, delivering a creamy texture and hearty substance. Vegetable broth forms the soup's foundation with savory undertones. Carrots add natural sweetness and a pop of color. Cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika introduce earthy, smoky, and slightly spicy notes. A dash of salt and pepper heightens all flavors. A splash of lemon juice brightens the soup, while fresh cilantro provides a fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you find your soup too thick, simply add more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency.
  • For an added layer of flavor, try roasting the ginger before grating it.
  • This soup freezes well. Make a big batch and save some for a rainy day.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or topped with croutons for a crunchy contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use yellow split peas instead of green?
Yes! Yellow split peas will work just as well and offer a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely. Use the sauté function for the onions, garlic, and ginger, then add the rest of the ingredients and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as your vegetable broth is vegan, this soup is completely plant-based.

Savory Ginger Split Pea Soup Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's warmed, toss in your diced onion. Sauté these until they're translucent, which should take about five minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen is filled with a sweet, aromatic scent.

Add in the garlic and the star ingredient, ginger. Stir them around for just a minute until they're fragrant but not browned. This step unlocks their flavors beautifully.

Next, introduce the split peas to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add your sliced carrots and spices: cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together, ensuring the peas and spices mingle well with the broth.

Bring this mix to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Leave it to cook for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally, checking that the peas are tender and the soup thickens nicely.

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Add a splash of lemon juice to lift the flavors. If you prefer a smoother texture, allow the soup to cool slightly, then blend half of it. This will give you a creamier consistency while still retaining some texture.

Finally, serve your creation hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Warm and comforting, perfect for cold weather.
  • Easy to make with pantry staples.
  • Rich in flavor with a delightful hint of ginger.
  • High in protein and fiber from split peas.
  • Adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 inches fresh ginger, grated
2 cups dried split peas, rinsed
8 cups vegetable broth
2 carrots, sliced
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add rinsed split peas, vegetable broth, sliced carrots, cumin, turmeric, and smoked paprika to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 45 minutes, or until peas are tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Let the soup cool slightly before blending half of it for a smoother consistency, if desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

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