Vegetarian Split Pea and Lentil Soup

Simple variation on the standard soup.

• Ready In: 1 hr 20 mins
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 2  cups  dried split peas or 1 (1 lb) bag  dried split peas
• 6  cups water or 6  cups  vegetable stock
• 1  bay leaf
• 1  teaspoon dry mustard
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1⁄2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cumin
• 2  large onions, chopped
• 6  medium garlic cloves, sliced
• 5  stalks celery, chopped
• 4  medium carrots, sliced
• 1  sweet potato, diced
• 1  cup  cooked lentils
•  salt
•  fresh ground black pepper
• 2  tablespoons  balsamic vinegar

Directions

1. Place first 7 ingredients in a large pot.
2. Bring to a boil and then simmer on low, partially covered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Saute in olive oil and then add onions, garlic, celery, carrots and potato.
4. Partially cover and allow to simmer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add water as needed.
5. Blend until smooth with hand mixer.
6. Add lentils.
7. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and vinegar.