Whalin's Crock Pot Split Pea Soup

Perfect for cold winter days, made in a crockpot, using bacon instead of ham.

• Ready In: 6 hrs 15 mins
• Serves: 10-12
• Yields: 6 quarts approx

Ingredients

• 1  lb  dried split green peas
• 4 -6  carrots
• 1  large onion
• 6 -8  stalks celery
• 1 -2  medium potato (I prefer yukon gold)
• 4  slices bacon
• 2  tablespoons  better than bouillon  chicken base (or to taste)
• 2  bay leaves
• 3 -5  garlic cloves (to taste)
• 1  tablespoon dried parsley flakes

Directions

1. Rinse split peas and sort for rocks.
2. Very coarsely chop vegetables and put in crock pot with bacon. Add split peas on top and cover with water (or chicken stock). Add bay leaves, parsley, chicken base and cover.
3. Cook on low for at least 6 hours. I've cooked for up to 12 with no problem. Stir if you think of it.
4. Just before serving remove bay leaves and blend using immersion blender until consistency you want. Add water if needed to thin out. Check seasonings and add black pepper to taste. Serve with good bread. Keeps well in the fridge to several days and freezes well. May have to add water to thin when you reheat.