Split Pea Soup

Combine the following ingredients in a 5 quart stock pot:

• 2 cups split peas
• 2 quarts cold water
• 1 carrot cut into small pieces or grated
• 1 onion, chopped fine
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp. salt (or to taste)
• Pinch black pepper

Bring ingredients to a boil for 30 minutes and then lower and simmer for another hour. Mix occasionally. You can use a blender to puree the soup or cook it for a longer period.

To serve:

Before serving, you can add your favorite toppings to make the soup more hearty. Some people add chunks of beef or frankfurters (kids love that). Others choose to make a nice dairy soup by adding grated cheese. Either way, this makes a delicious, hearty soup...great for a light meal or a nice appetizer.