Pea soup has been a Christmas Eve tradition in our family since I was a child. This tradition draws from practical routes: as we celebrate Christmas on the Eve, postponing the sharing of gifts for a big dinner doesn't mix with children.

Ingredients

2 cups split peas, rinsed
6 cups cold water
1 Ham bone
5 cups chicken broth
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk with leaves, finely chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 bay leaf
salt & pepper to taste
dash each of parsley, thyme, marjoram and cayenne pepper

Preparation

1. In a large pot add peas and ham bone with 6 cups of cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1 1/2 hours until the split peas are tender.
2. Add chicken broth, carrot, celery, onion, garlic, lemon juice, bay leaf and all spices. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for another 1/2 hour or until carrots are soft.
3. Remove the bay leaf. Cool slightly. Puree in a blender for a smooth soup or leave as is.