This is from a small, semi-vegetarian cookbook I’ve had for years. I have made several versions of split pea soup, this is my favorite and contains no meat. If you feel you would like to add a ham bone, or bacon/ham, feel free, just omit the butter.

Ingredients:

2 cups dried split peas

2 carrots, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

2 quarts water

fresh parsley (a handful or 1 tablespoon dried)

salt/herb salt and pepper

1/2 to 1 stick butter

Directions:

In a soup pot, place split peas with water and start cooking, boil and then simmer for about a half hour to 45 minutes. Add vegetables and cook, 1 1/2-2 hours or until split peas are dissolved. Add salt, pepper and butter. Serve after butter is dissolved.

…