Split Pea Soup With Ham

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped fine
• 3 celery ribs, chopped fine, include leaves
• 2 quarts water
• 4 chicken bouillon cubes
• 1 lb dried split peas
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 8 ounces cooked ham, chopped
• salt, if needed to taste

1. In a large soup pot, melt butter. Saute the onions and garlic for about 3 - 4 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
3. Add to the pot, the water, boillioun cubes, split peas, pepper, thyme, red pepper flakes, and chopped ham.
4. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat.
5. Cover and simmer for 1 hour until split peas are very tender. Smash some of the peas in the pot with a masher; if desired.
6. Taste and add salt, if needed.

butter, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, water, chicken bouillon cubes, peas, pepper, thyme, red pepper, ham, salt

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/split-pea-soup-with-ham-281955 (may not work)