Martha's Split Pea Soup, Vegetarian Style

Makes 2 quarts of soup.

1 package (2 cups) green split peas

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 cup chopped celery

1/2 cup chopped carrots

1 bay leaf

1 clove garlic, slivered

1 teaspoon sugar

1/4 teaspoon thyme

2 tablespoons butter or margarine that can be cooked with

2 tablespoons flour

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (sweet) - The paprika will add the flavor of ham without the ham.

Salt & pepper to taste

Soak peas overnight in enough water to cover. Save soaking liquid and add enough water to make 12 cups. Add the paprika (more if you wish) to flavor the soup, and simmer 3 hours. Place 1 cup of hot soup and cut vegetables in blender and blend till smooth. Return to soup and simmer another 1-1 1/2 hours with thyme, bay leaf and sugar (optional). Mix butter and flour into a paste; mix with a little of the hot soup and add to pot. Bring to boil once, then adjust seasoning to taste. The consistency should be that of thick cream.