BIG WARMING SOUP

BIG WARMING SOUP.

3 cups of yellow dried split peas
2 cups of red dried lentils
2 large onions finely chopped
2 leaks chopped
2 large carrots coarsely chopped
1 handful green beans finely chopped
1 teaspoon powdered white pepper
1 teaspoon of salt
1 handful of dried mix herbs or a pot puree of fresh herbs
1 pint of strong chicken or vegetable stock
1 can of beer (optional)

Heat a large pan and dry fry the onions until they begin to brown. Add the carrots and stir in for five minutes. Add the leaks and beans. Stir well together for three minutes. Add the stock and bring to the boil. Allow the soup to simmer for five minutes. Add the herbs and pepper and top up with hot water. Add the dried peas and lentils and cover. Leave to simmer for thirty minutes. Uncover and simmer until the soup begins to reduce and thicken. Add the can of beer (or pint of water) and salt. Simmer for another fifteen minutes. Can be served immediately or left and reheated when needed for a warming snack. Serve with lots of tasty bread and butter.