Split Pea Soup

SPLIT PEA SOUP
*from Meredith

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 onion, chopped

1 bay leaf

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups dried split peas

1/2 cup barley

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

5 cups broth (veggie or chicken)

5 cups water

3 carrots, chopped

3 stalks celery, chopped

3 potatoes, diced

1/2 cup chopped parsley

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

In a large pot over medium high heat, saute the oil, onion, bay leaf and garlic for 5 minutes, or until onions are translucent. Add the rest of the ingredients. Bring to a boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

If you don't have barely on hand you can substitute arborio rice