Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter 

1 large onion, finely chopped 

4 medium carrots (1 pound), cut into 1/2-inch rounds 

2 stalks celery, cut crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces 

1 pound green split peas, rinsed and picked through 

2 quarts chicken stock 

1 bay leaf 

Salt and freshly ground pepper 

2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch pieces 

Preparation

Melt butter in a 6-quart pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in split peas, chicken stock, and bay leaf; season with salt and pepper. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low; cover, and simmer, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes.

Add potatoes, and simmer until they are tender, about 30 minutes. Discard bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.