Wednesday potluck: hearty split pea soup

Anyone can make split pea soup and it's generally boring. Well I don't spice mine up too much, but here's tonight's version:

• half an onion
• bacon ends & pieces
• some pepper
• few bay leaves
• thyme
• basil
• dry mustard

Saute until bacon is done. Add:

• 2-3 quarts water
• one fat bullion cube
• 16 oz dried split peas
• 2-3 smallish potatoes
• half-cup basmati rice
• 2 carrots
• crushed garlic

Cook until the peas turn to mush. Garnish with:

• fresh tomatoes
• toasted sesame oil
• red wine vinegar

We ate it with a salad. Two regulars came over so it was enjoyable. The lion sprinkled Cheddar Bunnies in everyone's salad and soup while eating grape nuts. That girl survives on cereal some days. Just like her mama.