Ingredients

Instructions

  1. In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, heat the oil.
  2. Add the onions.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, crushed red pepper.
  4. Saute for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the garlic, bay leaf, and split peas and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
  6. Add the broth and ham.
  7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour or more, until the peas are tender.
  8. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
  9. Remove the bay leaf and discard.
  10. Add the milk and, using a hand-held blender or potato masher, process until smooth.
  11. Add the hot sauce if desired and serve hot.