Yellow Split Pea Soup

Step 1

Rinse the peas under cold water very well. Pick out any discoloured peas and discard.

Step 2

Fill a large pot with water and chicken broth.

Step 3

Add in the ham bone or salt pork and half of the onions; bring to a boil (skim off any froth or scume that gathers on top) simmer partially covered until the peas are tender but not falling apart (about 1 - 1-1/2 hours).

Step 4

Cook the leeks and the remaining onions in butter in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring until softened (about 10 minutes).

Step 5

Add to the soup with the chives, salt and pepper; continue to simmer (partially covered) until the peas are falling apart and the soup is thickened (about 1 - 1-1/2 hours).

Step 6

Remove the ham bone, then shred any meat on the bone and return the meat to the pot.

Step 7

Ladle hot soup into bowls and drizzle a small amount of whipping cream on top of the soup if desired.