Smoky Split Pea Soup with Ham

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the split peas, smoked ham hock, cumin, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
4. Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
6. Step 6: Remove the ham hock and bay leaf from the pot.
7. Step 7: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth.
8. Step 8: Shred the ham from the bone and return it to the pot.
9. Step 9: Simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes, or until heated through.