Swedish Pea Soup

Pea Soup is traditionally eaten in Sweden and Finland on Thursday in preparation for fasting on Friday. It is very popular there as it is inexpensive and easy to make and most people like it. In Sweden yellow split peas are used; green for Finland. A great use for leftover ham using ingredients found in most kitchens.

• Ready In: 1 hr 10 mins
• Serves: 8
• Yields: 8 bowls

Ingredients

• 1  lb  dried split peas (about 2 cups)
• 6  cups chicken broth
• 3  cups ham, cut into 1/2 inch dice (about 1 pound)
• 1 1⁄2 cups onions, thin sliced
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons marjoram, chopped or
• 1  teaspoon dried marjoram, crushed
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1⁄4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
•  spicy brown mustard (to garnish)

Directions

1. Sort through peas to remove any stones or foreign matter. Wash and drain.
2. Combine all the ingredients except mustard in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover, and simmer 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Serve with spicy brown mustard.