Thicker Than Pea Soup

Pea soup is a classic comfort food that has been around for centuries. It's a hearty and filling dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. While there are many different recipes for pea soup, I like to make mine with a few extra ingredients that make it extra thick and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried split peas

• 1 ham hock or smoked turkey leg

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the split peas in a colander and drain.

2. Place the split peas, ham hock or smoked turkey leg, onion, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf in a large pot.

3. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the peas are tender.

5. Remove the ham hock or smoked turkey leg and shred the meat.

6. Return the meat to the soup and stir in salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve hot.

Tips:

• For a richer flavor, you can brown the ham hock or smoked turkey leg before adding it to the soup.

• If you don't have a ham hock or smoked turkey leg, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of bacon grease or olive oil.

• To make the soup thicker, you can puree some of the soup in a blender before adding it back to the pot.

• Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or crackers.

Here are a few additional thoughts about pea soup:

• It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables.

• You can add other ingredients to the soup, such as potatoes, corn, or lentils.

• Serve it with a side of your favorite salad or sandwich.

• For a more decadent dish, top the soup with shredded cheddar cheese or sour cream.

Pea soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. So next time you're in the mood for a delicious and comforting meal, give it a try.

Here's a story about pea soup:

I grew up in a small town in the Midwest, and pea soup was a staple in our household. My mom made it every winter, and I always looked forward to it. There was something about the warm, hearty soup that just felt like home.

One of my favorite memories of pea soup is from when I was a kid. I was home sick from school, and my mom made me a bowl of pea soup. I sat at the kitchen table and ate it slowly, savoring every bite. The soup was so comforting, and it helped me feel better almost immediately.

Pea soup is more than just a delicious dish to me. It's a reminder of home and family. It's a comfort food that always makes me feel happy and loved.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for thicker than pea soup pea soup. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.