Split Pea Soup A La Julia Child

Directions

1. 1
   For the stock, put the ham hocks in a kettle with water to cover by 2 inches.
2. 2
   Make an herb bouquet with washed cheesecloth, using the bay leaves, thyme and cloves or allspice.
3. 3
   Put this in the pot, along with the carrots, onions and celery.
4. 4
   Simmer 3 to 4 hours with the kettle cover slightly open.
5. 5
   Or, simmer in crockpot for 8 hours on low.
6. 6
   Skim occasionally.
7. 7
   Strain and degrease.
8. 8
   Easiest way to degrease is to make ahead and chill, remove fat when cold.
9. 9
   Freeze if you want.
10. 10
    To make the soup, set a saucepan over medium heat and melt the butter.
11. 11
    Saute the vegetables, stirring, for 5 minutes.
12. 12
    Blend in the flour and cook, stirring for 3 minutes.
13. 13
    Remove from the heat and cool briefly, blend in the hot ham stock and the split peas.
14. 14
    Bring to a simmer, stirring.
15. 15
    Cover and cook about 45 minutes until peas are tender.
16. 16
    Salt and pepper to taste after 1/2 hour of simmering.
17. 17
    When cooked, mash or puree the soup depending on the consistency you want.
18. 18
    Garnish with homemade croutons or sauteed ham bits if desired.