11th May , 2007
JAMIE CROOKIVER (aka JAMES CROOK)

PICTURE: James Crook "Winter is definitely on its way, but there are some good things that come of the cold weather and soup is one of them."

"As the days grow short, some faces grow long. But not mine. Every autumn, when the wind turns cold and darkness comes early, I am suddenly happy. It's time to start making soup again."

This is a quote from Leslie Newman, co-writer of the first three Superman movies and an excellent cook. I remember it often on mornings when I'm pulling thick socks on in the dark, ready to walk the dog in the crisp morning air. Winter is definitely on its way, but there are some good things that come of the cold weather and soup is one of them.

Soup always warms you right to the middle, and one of my favourites is  the smooth and rich pea and ham.

INGREDIENTS:
1 meaty ham hock
500 gm dried yellow split peas
2 brown onions
2 carrots
1 stick celery
2 cloves crushed garlic
1 tablespoon olive oil
2.5 litres water

METHOD:
Soak the split peas in water overnight.

Chop the onions roughly. Heat a large saucepan, add the olive oil and  fry the onions and garlic until soft.

Add the water, the drained split peas and the chopped carrot and celery. Bring to the boil and add the ham hock.

Simmer for one-and-a-half to two hours, stirring occasionally to stop it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Once all the vegies are very soft and the ham is coming away from the bone, carefully remove the entire ham hock and take the saucepan off  the heat.

Using a barmix or blender, mix the soup until smooth.

Cut the ham from the hock bone, discarding any skin or extra fat. Chop  the ham and return to the saucepan.

Put the soup back on the heat for a few more minutes until heated  through, season with pepper.

Serve immediately as an entree or with rye toast for a satisfyingly hearty meal.

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