Yellow split pea soup with pancetta

Yes, it even gets cold in Los Angeles and lately, its been downright chilly! It felt right to create some new soup recipes and this one was inspired by the husbands. Both scoff at soup most of the time, deeming it an appetizer or side dish, and always asking after where was dinner, but both love this soup. By adding the pancetta the soup takes on a heartier flavor, imparting that meatiness they love. The paprika and Zaatar take the soup out of the deli and their basic version, and elevate the soup with depth of flavor and smokiness. One child rejected the soup outright, and the other scarfed it down. Perhaps, he will follow in his Dad's footsteps and embrace the pea.... soup that it is! Serve it with a crusty baguette and everyone will feel satiated.

Yellow Split Pea Soup with Pancetta
Serves 4-6
 
2 cups yellow split peas (use green if you want)
4 cups chicken stock (can sub veggie stock)
3-4 cups water
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
5 carrots, peeled and chopped
4 stalks of celery, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced
4 ounces of Pancetta, chopped into small pieces or use pre-cubed
1 tablespoon Zaatar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1-teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
 
In a large soup pot, brown the pancetta over medium high heat. You can use a dry pan, as meat will give off its own fat. When the meat is almost crisp, remove from pot and set aside. Add olive oil to the drippings and then the onions and teaspoon of salt. Cook the onions over medium heat until they begin to soften, and then add the carrots, garlic and celery. Stir and cook for a few minutes, letting some bits begin to brown. Add in your spices and stir. Cook for one minute then add the peas. After another minute or two add in your liquids and stir. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about forty minutes, until peas and veggies are soft.
 
In a blender, blend the soup and return it to the pot. Stir in the reserved pancetta and serve the soup with crusty bread!