Split Up

Some times in our house someone needs to eat a couple of hours before the rest of the family or a few hours later. On those occasions I like to prepare something that will stay hot over the evening,
Soup in the slow cooker fits the bill perfectly.

This healthy comforting soup is perfect now that the cold blustery weather here, and literally takes 5 minutes to throw together. Leave it alone for 6 to 8 hours and it will be perfect by dinnertime. You can make it vegetarian by omitting the ham and sausage.
Using the slow cooker omits the overnight soaking that dried beans require. If you have a leftover ham bone toss it in too.

Serve topped with cracked pepper and a slice of warm bread on the side.
This soup was a huge hit in our house, and I think it will be in yours too!

Slow Cooker Split Pea Soup

• 1- 1 pound bag of dried split yellow peas
• 1 each carrot, celery rib and onion peeled and diced
• 1 cup  of diced ham  
• 1/2 cup smoked sausage diced (optional)
• 8 cups of water
• 1 tsp each of thyme, savory and parsley
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ham hock bone

Combine all in a slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours and then low for 2.

Cheers!