Split-Pea Soup

Yet another of my mom's famous soups.

Ingredients:

1 lb green split peas
10 c water
2 bay leaves
3 T olive oil
3 medium onions, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 t cumin
2 celery ribs, diced
3 carrots, diced
2 T tamari soy sauce
black pepper to taste
salt
2 T butter

Directions:

In large pot, combine peas, water, bay leaves and 1 T oil. Cover, bring to boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cook 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Meanwhile, heat remaining 2 T oil in medium skillet. Add onions and garlic and saute 10 minutes or until tender. Stir in cumin and cook, stirring frequently, 2 additional minutes.