I am still reading this entire thread so apologize in advance if you’ve already done so, but I’d love these recipes if you don’t mind. Fell free to pm if it’s easier.
Princess Di's recipe is on this thread a ways back. There are 2, pick what one you think you'd like. Experiment !!
Red Baron's German pea soups in a can looks decent too.
For my pea soup:
1 lb bag green split peas, rinsed and picked over, if necessary.
A pot that will hold about a gallon, but you're going to end up with half that.
Put peas in pot and fill with water to about 3" below the brim.
Add one chopped med onion, and 2 rough chopped fresh carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks.
Cook on med-high heat, stirring occasionally (about 45 minutes).
Let it cool down for a while, then pick out maybe 1/2 cup of the carrots and set aside; pour
some peas (and their cooking water) into a blender and whir until it looks smooth (only takes a few seconds). Repeat with rest of peas.
Return to pot with the heat down to low. (keep a little water handy - don't want to scorch it)
Add back in the carrots you saved.
Add several tbsp of butter. Add salt to taste.
Now add in 2 med potatoes you have cooked and cut into bite-size chunks.
What I do next some people might not like, but just leave out if you don't: A small can of peas, drained.
Makes about 1/2 gallon. It should not be a thin soup, but add a tad of water if it's too thick for you.