SOUPE AUX POIS (CANADIAN PEA SOUP)

Soupe aux Pois (Canadian Pea Soup) image

Provided by Vickie Parks

Time 6h30m

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 1/2 c dried yellow peas
6 c water, for soaking
1/4 lb salt pork (salted pork belly)
2 1/2 c chopped onion
2 Tbsp butter
1 c diced carrots
1 c diced celery
6 c water
3 bay leaves
1/2 tsp dried savory (or 2 teaspoons fresh savory)
salt and pepper, for seasoning

Steps:

1. Soak the peas in the water for about 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl of cold water, soak the salt pork for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large stock pot, brown the onions in the butter. Add the carrots and celery. Continue cooking for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the water, drained peas, meat and bay leaves. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer over low heat for 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours or until the peas are tender.
5. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Remove the meat from the fat of the salt pork, chop into small dice and return to the pot and cook until heated through.
6. Add the savory, season with salt and pepper, and serve.