Pea and ham soup

Pea and ham soup

A perfect winter warmer for your lunchbox!

Ingredients:

2 onions, finely chopped

1 carrot, finely chopped

1 celery stick, finely chopped

300g dried green split peas

2 smoked ham hocks

2 litres chicken stock

A handful of parsley, finely chopped

1tsp fresh thyme leaves

2 tbsp butter

Salt and pepper

Method:

1. Heat the butter in a large saucepan. When sizzling add the onion, carrot and celery and cook for 10 minutes, stirring, until the vegetables have softened.

2. Stir in the peas, parsley and thyme and cook for one minute. Add the ham hocks and stock. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a low simmer, cover and cook for 2 hours. You will need to stir frequently to prevent the peas sticking to the bottom of the pan.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool to room temperature . Take out the ham, cut off an skin and fat, then remove the meat from the bone and shred.

4. Return the shredded meat to the pan and cook for 10-15 minutes over a low heat. Season to taste.

5. Fill your lunchboxesetc food flask to the brim, stash in your lunchbox and try and wait until until lunchtime to enjoy! This recipe will serve 4 so why not freeze the other three portions separately for future lunches.

This recipe is brought to you by lunchboxesetc.co.uk the home of unique personalised lunchboxes