February 17, 2006, Newsletter Issue #93: Split Pea Sans Meat

Tip of the Week

Split pea soup is a delicious, well-known soul food that is a favorite to many. The traditional version of the soup has a meat base and is infused with a ham bone. The soup itself, however, is so delicious that it can stand alone sans meat. Try this amazing version that’s yummy enough to please any vegetarian (or non-vegetarian): 7 cups of water 1 pound of green split peas, rinsed 1 cup finely chopped onions 1 cup finely diced parsnips ½ cup diced carrots 1 teaspoon of dried celery flakes ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crumbled 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil 2 slices rye bread, cubed 1 tablespoon caraway seeds, crushed ½ teaspoon dry mustard 1 cup of skim milk

In a 3-quart saucepan, combine water, peas, onions, parsnips, carrots, celery flakes and rosemary and bring the entire mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Next, reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally two hours (the mixture should be thick and the water should be completely absorbed). While the mixture is simmering, warm oil in a frying pan over medium heat and add the bread, caraway seeds and mustard. Sauté these items for 5 minutes (the croutons should be golden in color). Set aside. Add the milk to the split pea mixture and stir until blended. Simmer all ingredients 10 minutes, or until completely heated. Use croutons as a garnish when serving.

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