Split Pea Soup

Ingredients

• 2 qt. hot water
• 1 lb. green split peas (2 c.)
• 1 1/2 to 2 lb. meaty ham bone or 2 c. diced ham
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1/2 to 1 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. basil
• 1/4 tsp. pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 stalks celery, in 1/4-inch slices
• 2 medium carrots, sliced thin