EILEENS GREEN SPLIT PEA SOUP

Eileens Green Split Pea Soup image

Provided by Eileen Hineline

Time 1h

Number Of Ingredients 9

1 pkg hurst's split peas
12 cups water
1 medium onion, chopped fine
1 carrot, diced
4 tablespoons butter or margarine
1-1/2 to 2 tsps salt
1/4th to 1/2 tsp pepper
enclosed ham packet
* you can add diced ham too for extra flavor.

Steps:

1. Please rinse peas and remove debris before using the peas. comebine split peas,water,chopped onion,diced carrots,and butter. Cover(not too tightly),heat to boiling and boil rapidly 30 minutes.
2. Add enclosed packet of Ham flavoring with salt and pepper. Cover, reduce heat and simmer about 30 minutes. stir occasionally.
3. Taste-test to see that soup is smooth. If you wish it to be very smooth,you can puree it. Serve piping hot. If desired, croutons may be added as a garnish. Great,too, served ice-cold topped with chopped chives or green onions.
4. to make it my own I add diced potatoes,I use about 4 to 6 medium. I also add canned Ham already diced up and add different spices to enhance the flavor.I make hot biscuts or french bread to make it a complete meal. This soup never last long in my house.