^[1]Split pea soup, an American classic, is high on my list of great comfort foods. Adapted from Great American Vegetarian ^[2].

Serves: 8 or more

• 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium celery stalks, diced
• 1 large or 2 medium carrots, diced
• 16 ounces green split peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1/2 cup pearl barley
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose seasoning blend (such as Spike or Mrs. Dash)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Heat the oil in a large soup pot. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the onions are soft and golden.

Add 8 cups of water and all the remaining ingredients except salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then simmer gently, covered, for 30 minutes.

Stir, then add 2 additional cups of water. Simmer for another 40 to 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender and the peas are mushy. Serve at once, or let the soup stand for an hour or two, then heat through as needed.

Note: The soup thickens considerably as it stands. Add more water as needed, then taste to correct the seasonings.

• Explore other recipes for hearty winter soups. ^[3]