Split Pea Soup

I turned 60 this year and my family hosted a surprise party.  It was a wonderful surprise, but scary how they could have hidden it from me so successfully.  I guess my age old threat that mom has eyes in the back of her head and sees everything is now completely blown.

The menu included a whole pig roasted on the barbecue.  It took all day and was mouth watering delicious.  The whole family contributed toward the festivities.  I have never felt so special, and although it was over a month ago already, my heart still warms at the memory.

Caitlin inherited the ham bones which have been taking up most of her freezer.  Initially I was going to take them but Al is not a fan of pea soup.  Although pea soup is one of my favorites, I declined the bones, but opted to give the recipe to my daughters in the hope that I might beg a bowl.

Well today is my lucky day!  Caitlin sent me a picture of the soup she made today, and gave me permission to use her picture in my blog.  As you can see she did a super job.  Her family agrees because I am told even the grand kids ate it.


SPLIT PEA SOUP

2 cups dried split peas

8 cups water

1 ham bone

1 cup chopped celery

½ cup chopped onion

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley ( or 1 tsp dried)

Salt and freshly ground pepper

Place dried peas and water in large pot. Bring to boil. Boil two

minutes. Remove from heat. Cover. Let stand 1 hour. Add

remaining ingredients. Bring back to boil. Cover. Reduce heat.

Simmer approximately 2 hours. Remove ham bone. Add any

meat to soup. Taste and adjust seasonings.