Rinse the dried split peas and pick out any stones or debris. Be especially careful to remove any human body parts.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.

Add the split peas, bay leaf, thyme, beer (drink the leftover 4oz of it just because), vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the split peas are tender.

Cook some bacon in whatever way you like to cook it. Make sure to dice up prior or after.

Remove the bay leaf and give it to a friend (or enemy).

Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy.

Stir in the bacon.

Serve in bowls and maybe add some crackers things as a free gift to your eaters.

EAT IT!