Green Split Pea Soup With Ham
by Chef Patricia DeMauro
INGREDIENTS
16 ounces package of dried green peas
16 ounces ham steak with bone or ham shank
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 large carrots
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup celery
1/4 cup olive oil
PREPARATION
Wash, peel and finely dice carrots and celery. Dice the garlic cloves. Chop and dice ham into small bite size pieces and set aside.
In an 8 quart stainless steel pan or dutch oven add 1 cup olive oil. Heat on medium.
Add celery and onions. Cook until soft. Then add garlic and cook until onion and garlic are slightly browned, then stir.
Add 1 teaspoon of oregano
Add ham. Sautė for 2-3 mins and stir.
Add 10 cups water and split green peas.
Put heat on high and bring to a rapid boil for about 10 – 15 minutes.
Then reduce heat to medium and cover with lid. Keep lid slightly ajar to release steam.
Continue to cook for approximately 45 mins or until split peas are soft, and soup has a smooth texture.
If necessary, add 1 more cup of water and continue to boil on medium
Served with buttered elbow macaroni or rice.
You can garnish with hot sauce and/or grated Italian cheese.
Mangia!