Created by Tink on December 6, 2011
Step 1: Melt the 1 tablespoon of butter in a large saucepan or stockpot. Add the bacon, onion, carrots and celery and cook for 5-10mins or until the veggies begin to soften and the bacon is crispy.
Step 2: Add the split peas and stock to the saucepan bringing to a boil, lower the heat, cover and simmer for 1 hour or until the split peas are soft and cooked through.
Step 3: Allow the soup to cool then place in a blender or food processor, pulse a few times or more depending on how smooth or chunky you want it. (If you have a hand held blender wand then do it right in the pot being careful not to over process).
Step 4: Return the soup to the pot. Season with salt and pepper and gently reheat being careful not to allow the soup to boil.
Step 5: Garnish with the croutons and the reserved tablespoon of cooked chopped bacon. Serve immediately.