German Split Pea Soup
shared by Jennifer
shared by Jennifer
Put the oil and bacon into a 6 qt. pot and cook over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate; set aside.
Add onion, celery, carrots, and celery root, season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 10 minutes. Stir in flour; cook, stirring for 3 minutes.
Add parsley, thyme and bay leaves to the pot along with the peas, ham hock (I used the turkey leg because it's a more milder smokey flavor) and 8 cups water.
Bring to a boil, reduce to low and simmer, covered, until peas are very tender, about 1 hour. Remove and discard thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Add turkey meat if desired. Season with salt and pepper and sprinkle with reserved bacon.
If you cannot find celery root or don't care to use it, substitute, potatoes, or turnips!