Spicy Pumpkin & Split Pea Soup

Serves 6

INGREDIENTS
1/4 tsp saffron threads
10 cups (2 1/2 quarts) chicken broth
1 1/4 cups dried yellow split peas
1 large onion, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground ginger
6 cups peeled, seeded and cubed pumpkin (from a 3- to 4-pound pumpkin)
Minced fresh parsley

INSTRUCTIONS
In a large metal spoon or a small pan, heat saffron over low heat about 10 seconds until dry, then grind to a powder with the back of a spoon and steep in 1 tbsp boiling water to release flavor, about 1 minute. Bring broth, peas and onion to a boil in a large soup pot over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, 30 to 40 minutes. Stir in oil, cinnamon, ginger, spoonful of saffron and pumpkin. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer, partially covered, stirring occasionally, about 1 hour. The soup is done when the pumpkin begins to fall apart and the peas are tender. Salt and pepper and sprinkle with parsley.