Quick and easy to make in a pressure cooker and, as the name says, this soup is a winner with kids. Full of split peas, carrots, celery, and potatoes, and great in a lunch thermos, or with salad and crackers for a nutritious and economical dinner.
INGREDIENTS (for 5 servings):
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 3/4 cups dried split peas
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth
- 1 bay leaves
- 2 ounces bacon
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried chervil
- salt and pepper to taste
PREPARATION:
In a pressure cooker over medium heat, saute the garlic, onion and celery in the olive oil for 5 minutes, or until onion is translucent. Add the peas, broth, bay leaf and ham. Cook under pressure for 10 to 12 minutes. (Note: If you do not have a pressure cooker, cook the peas over low heat for 3 to 4 hours or use a slow cooker.)
Once the peas are soft, stir in the potatoes, carrots and chervil and simmer for 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add water as needed to adjust the thickness of the soup.