Split Pea Soup with Quinoa

Split Pea Soup with Quinoa
Submitted by Susan N
2 cups split peas
8 cups chicken broth (can use ½ water) (may need more liquid than this)
1 rib celery, chopped
1 cup onion, chopped
1 large carrot, chopped
½ cup Quinoa, rinsed
½ cup bacon, cooked & crumbled
¼ tsp thyme
1 bay leaf (remove after cooking soup)
½ tsp sea salt
1 garlic clove
½ tsp basil
Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low 8-12 hours or on love 6 hours…..or until peas are tender. Watch the liquid levels and add more chicken broth if you like a thinner soup. This soup is very thick.
When it’s done and you stir the mixture the peas become fairly smooth.
Also….add, more broth, pepper, more garlic, and chicken bouillon to taste.

Note: Quinoa is a seed/grain. It is a complete protein and has 9 essential amino acids and is very high in fiber. It also has a low glycemic index. It is sold at all grocery stores. You can use it like rice or add to salads, soups, chili, etc.