Split Pea Soup With Ham - cooking recipe

Ingredients

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

Preparation

In a large soup pot, melt butter. Saute the onions and garlic for about 3 - 4 minutes.
Add the chopped carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Add to the pot, the water, boillioun cubes, split peas, pepper, thyme, red pepper flakes, and chopped ham.
Bring to a boil. Reduce heat.
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.
Taste and add salt, if needed.