Split Pea Soup with High Protein Bread

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried split peas, rinsed

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 slices of high protein bread (e.g. Burgen, Coles, Macro)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • Rinse the dried split peas under cold water.

   • Finely chop the onion, and dice the carrots and celery.

   • Mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Soup:

   • In a large pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.

   • Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

3. Simmer the Soup:

   • Add the rinsed split peas, low-sodium vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme to the pot.

   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the split peas are tender and the soup has thickened.

   • Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Serve:

   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls.

   • Serves with toasted high protein bread.