Savory Split Pea Soup

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

2 cloves garlic
1 yellow onion
1 1/2 tablespoons fresh basil leaves
3 stalks celery
1 tablespoon dried parsley
pinch rosemary
1 tablespoon olive oil
water
1 tablespoon vegan bouillon mix
2 cups dry green split peas
1 bay leaf
salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:

Fresh basil makes this split pea soup an absolutely to die for dish.

1. Thinly slice the garlic, onion, basil, celery. In a deep and large pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and fry the chopped vegetables on medium-high heat until softened and the onions are translucent and starting to brown.

2. Add water to your pot, filling to 1/2 inch from the top. Set the heat to high, dissolve bouillon and add the split peas, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then turn down heat to medium, cover, and wait, stirring occasionally.

3. It will take about 1 hour or more to cook down, but patience is a virtue...especially since this soup is so good and simple. Give it a good stir with a whisk once the peas are mushy; this will make the soup creamy without making a mess with the blender.

If you like a thicker soup, let it boil down longer until the desired consistency is reached. If you like a thinner soup, feel free to add water when you notice it becoming too thick.