Split Pea Soup

Ingredients

• 1 package (16 oz.) dried green split peas, rinsed
• 1 hambone
• OR
• 2 cups diced ham
• 3 carrots, peeled & sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 stalks of celery plus leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh pepper
• 1 1/2 quart hot water