In a large soup pot, heat Earth Balance spread. Add onion, carrots, celery and garlic and cook for about 4 minutes until vegetables are soft. Stir in oregano and smoked paprika and cook another two minutes. Stir in bay leaf and split peas and cook another two minutes. Pour in vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook over low/medium heat for about an hour. Remove bay leaf. Puree to desired consistency with an immersion blender. Add salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Recipe by Prepgreen at https://www.prepgreen.com/savory-split-pea-soup/