Green Things and Ham Soup

Not strictly veggie, but pretty good :)


1/2 to 3/4 of a bunch of celery with strings removed, and chopped up. use all of the leafy sections for sure!
1 bag of split peas
approximately 1 bunch of cilantro, washed, chopped.
1/2 cup pearled barley
1/2 onion chopped small
2 cloves fresh garlic, peeled, crushed, chopped small
2 cups of chopped ham
Salt, pepper


In about 3 quarts of water (may need to add more as you go), cook the chopped celery until tender.  dip or strain out the celery, keep the water simmering.   Add the split peas and the barley.  Place the celery into a blender and puree.  Return to soup.  Puree the fresh cilantro and add to the soup.  Add chopped onion and garlic.  Simmer until split peas are dissolved and barley is soft.  Add seasonings to taste and add chopped ham.  Remove from heat and let the flavors mingle.  Serve with crunchy toast or croutons.