A hearty split peas soup with bacon and smoked link sausage.

Split Pea Soup

1 pound split green peas
6 cups water
6 strips thick bacon, sliced
1 pound link sausage, sliced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 celery rib, chopped
1/2 pound leek, chopped
2 onions, sliced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1. In a large kettle combine split green peas and 6 cups water. Cook slowly, covered, for 1 1/2 hours, or until tender.
2. In a deep skillet combine sliced bacon, sliced link sausage, sliced carrots, chopped celery rib, chopped leeks, sliced onions, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover with water and cook slowly, covered, for 40 minutes or until the vegetables and bacon are tender.
3. Drain and reserve liquid. Add the vegetables to the split pea mixture. Skim the surface of the reserved vegetable liquid and add to the split pea mixture. Blend well.

Makes 12 servings.