Split pea soup (vegan)

1. In a large 5-6 qt pot bring to a boil water, split peas, celery, onion, thyme and bay leaves.
2. Reducei heat and simmer covered about 20 min or until split peas are a little soft.
3. Add carrots, garlic, basil and oregano, bring to a second boil then continue simmering covered until split peas are very tender and are dissolving to form a thick broth.
4. Add potato and simmer until potato is tender but still firm.
5. Turn burner to lowest heat.
6. Add green onions, spike tamari sea salt & cayenne pepper to taste.
7. Add peas if desired.
8. Heat gently stirring until peas are tender.
9. Nutrition (per serving): 139 calories total fat 1 g (3% of calories).