Split Pea Soup with Ham TVP

Serves 4.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 c green split peas
• 1 c boiling water
• 2 Tbsp ham-flavored TVP
• 1 Tbsp margarine or butter
• 1/4 c onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 c celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 c carrot, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 c cabbage, finely chopped
• 2 c chicken style vegetarian broth
• 2 c water
• 1/2 c potatoes, peeled and finely chopped
• 1/2 Tbsp dry parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/8 tsp white pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• /8 tsp turmeric

Directions:

1. Sort and soak the peas overnight. Before beginning to cook the soup, place the TVP in a small bowl and cover it with the boiling water. Set aside.
2. Melt the margarine in the bottom of a medium heavy pot over medium low heat. Saute the onion, celery, carrot, and cabbage in the margarine for about 3 minutes. Add the broth, the 2 cups of water, drained split peas, potatoes, parsley, salt, white pepper, coriander, and turmeric; blend well. Bring to simmering, reduce heat to lowest setting and cover. Simmer 75 minutes.
3. Stir in the TVP with its soaking liquid and simmer another 5-10 minutes, uncovered. Use an emersion blender or potato masher to partially puree the soup to the consistency you desire. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle serve hot with oyster crackers or croutons.