PEA & HAM SOUP

SERVES 4 PREP 5 MINS COOK 2 HOURS 30 MINS PER SERVE 2172kj COST $$

1 large onion, chopped 1 medium carrot, chopped 1.25kg ham hock 2L chicken stock (see tip) 500g green split peas

1 In a large oiled stockpot, saute onion and carrot on medium 3-4 mins until softened. 2 Add the ham hock, stock and split peas. Increase heat to high and bring to boil. 3 Reduce heat to medium and simmer, covered, 2 ½ hours (see tip). Remove the ham hock and set aside to cool. Using a stick blender, process the soup until smooth. 4 Remove the skin, bone and fat from the hock. Shred the meat from the hock and return to the soup. Season to taste. Serve soup with crusty bread and mint leaves, if liked.