Parisian Split Pea Soup With Bacon and Croutons

This soup is nutritious and filling, perfect for a cold winter day.

The bacon and croutons add a savory crunch to every spoonful.

Split peas can be an acquired taste for some people, and the soup can be thick and heavy.

Like any bacon dish, this soup is not suitable for vegetarians or people who don’t eat pork.

This soup is a good source of dietary fiber, protein, and vitamins.
The split peas contain high amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

	4 slices good quality white bread , cut into 3/4-inch cubes ( brioche or challah )
	3 tablespoons unsalted butter , melted ( or olive oil )
	salt
	fresh ground pepper
	1 lb spit peas
	4 ounces bacon
	1 small onion , chopped
	1 large carrot , peeled and chopped
	1 celery rib , chopped
	2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
	1/2 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
	1 bay leaf
	8 cups chicken broth
	salt
	fresh ground pepper

1.	Preheat oven to 375 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2.	Toss the bread cubes with the melted butter or olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on the prepared baking sheet and bake, stirring occasionally until they are golden and crispy, about 15 minutes.
3.	In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy and the fat is rendered, about 8 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4.	Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery to the bacon fat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
5.	Add the split peas, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil.
6.	Reduce heat to low, cover and cook until the peas are very tender, about 1 & 1/2 to 2 hours.
7.	Remove the bay leaf and discard. Puree the soup using an immersion blender or transfer it in batches to a blender or food processor and purée until smooth.
8.	Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9.	Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the bacon and croutons. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.