My split pea soup

 The English Kitchen recently posted a recipe for English Pea Soup and I decided to make my own split pea soup as pictured above.  I don't find it necessary to soak my peas beforehand.

Here is my recipe (sooo delicious):

1 1/3 c split peas

2 tbs butter

2 cloves garlic minced

1 onion chopped

2 stalks celery chopped

1 carrot chopped

1 bay leaf

1/2 tsp dried parsley

2 tbs fresh dill chopped (or whatever herb you choose)

7 1/2 c water

1 bouillon cube (I use Maggi brand)

1/2 tsp red pepper

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 c chopped ham (I used half a 340g can)

3 tbs olive oil

In a large pot, saute onions, celery, carrots, in olive oil and butter. add garlic,

then add split peas, water, bouillon cube, ham, bay leaf, parsley, dill, red pepper, black pepper

bring to a boil and simmer 1 hour.