Smoky, Spicy Split Pea Soup

Sometimes life goes like this: go out on date. Have a great time, and be super jazzed when he asks for Date #2. Meet up for second date. Things are going great. Then, out of nowhere, cliched lines are dropped like bombs:

"I'm just not ready to date... "

"I'm feeling this as more of a friends thing..."

"It's not you, it's totally me."

Dudes, take note: if you're not ready to date, do not ask a girl out, and do not set up a second date if you realize this while out on the first date.

Girls, take note: While you may have been super-psyched, this is real life. When feelings are a one-way street, it's rough. You may feel like you need a hug.

That's exactly what this soup is. A hug. In a bowl.

Make it, curl up with House Hunters and a puppy. Recharge. Then get back out there!

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Smoky, Spicy Split Pea Soup

Adapted from Appetite for Reduction

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Ground black pepper (lots!)
1 tsp sea salt
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp sriracha
2 tsp dried thyme
2 cups diced carrots
1 1/4 cup yellow and green dried split peas
8 cups veggie broth
juice and zest from one lemon

In a 6-quart pot, saute onions until tender. Add garlic, salt, pepper, and saute for another two minutes
Add spices and sriracha and cook another few seconds. Add carrots, broth, and peas. Cook covered for 45 minutes. Add lemon juice, zest, and taste for seasonings. Allow to sit for a few minutes before serving to deepen flavors.