Split Pea and Cauliflower Soup (gf)

Adapted from the Alberta Pulse Growers

2 Tcanola oil, cold pressed if available
2–3 clovesgarlic, minced
1 medyellow onion, chopped
4 cchopped fresh or frozen cauliflower
½ cdried green split peas, drained and rinsed
½ tfresh thyme, chopped
4 cstock (use vegetable stock if you prefer a vegetarian soup)
kosher salt and fresh-cracked black pepper
⅓ ccrumbled sharp cheddar cheese

In a large heavy saucepan or Dutch oven heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, sauté until caramelized and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cauliflower, split peas, thyme and stock. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the peas are tender. Remove from the heat and blitz to a chunky texture. (If using a blender, be careful transferring the hot liquid.) Season to taste. Serve with crumbled cheese and a drizzle of cold pressed canola oil if desired. Serves 4-6.