Simplest Split Pea Soup

== Description ==
To make pea soup, you need split peas, water (or stock, or course), and croutons. Everything else is a luxury. Some of those luxuries are detailed in the variations, but you can combine them as you like.
* Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
* Source: How to Cook Everything
* Typed by: Susan alexanderjamesmom@gmail.com
* Time: at least 1½ hours
* Makes 4 – 6 servings
== Ingredients ==
* 2 cups green split peas, washed and picked over
* 6 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, or water
* salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* croutons
== Directions ==
# Combine the peas and the stock or water in a large, deep saucepan or casserole and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
# Turn the heat to low, cover partially, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas are very, very soft, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
# Mash the mixture with a fork or potato masher, or put it through a food mill or strainer, or puree it carefully in a blender. (You may prepare the soup in advance up to this point. Cover, refrigerate for up to 2 days, and reheat before proceeding).
# Reheat, adding more stock or water if necessary to achieve the consistency you like.
# Season to taste and serve with croutons.
Category:Beef stock and broth Recipes
Category:Cathy's Recipes
Category:Chicken stock and broth Recipes
Category:Green split pea Recipes
Category:Soup Recipes
Category:Vegetable stock and broth Recipes