I can’t believe I’ve never blogged about this recipe.  I guess that means it’s been over a year since I’ve made it.  Shame, shame on me.  Matt loves this soup and I like it too.  It does take a while to cook, but the prep time is quick and it’s so easy.  It’s also really cheap to make.  I like the addition of barely because it gives the soup some extra texture.  Otherwise, it’s pretty much like baby food.  AND, I think you could throw the ingredients into a slow cooker and have it cook on low the whole time you’re at work and you could come home to a delicious, easy meal.  Unfortunately, split pea soup just doesn’t photograph well.

Split Pea and Barely Soup

1 onion, chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

2 cups split peas

1/4 cup pearl barley

8 cups water

Throw everything into a big pot and bring to a boil.  Reduce to a simmer for about an hour or until the peas are soft.  You may need to add more water as it cooks off and gets absorbed.  Cook until you’ve reached a consistency that you like.