Momma's Split Pea Soup

• 1 cups dry green split peas
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 cup celery, diced into 1/4" pieces
• 1/2 cup carrots, diced into 1/4" pieces
• 1/4 cup onions, diced into 1/4" pieces
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes
• 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• pinch paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme

In a covered medium pot, bring split peas and water to a boil, immediately reduce heat to simmer and continue cooking until peas are half done, about 30 minutes. Add remaining ingredients and simmer covered until tender, about 45 minutes. Serve hot. Total cooking time will be about 1 hour and 15 minutes.