Split Pea Soup

Directions

1. 1
   Slow cooker: load the slow cooker/pot with half a gallon hot water.
2. 2
   Stovetop: add the water to a pot and bring to a boil. Place the peas into the hot water.
3. 3
   Add the ham shanks.
4. 4
   Slow cooker: cook on high for 3 hours.
5. 5
   Stovetop: bring to the boil and then simmer, covered, for 3 hours. Add more water if the liquid boils away too quickly.
6. 6
   Remove the ham shanks from the soup and pull off the bone. Chop into smaller pieces if necessary. Return to the slow cooker/saucepan. Chop the celery and leeks into small pieces. Next, add the celery, leeks, salt and pepper and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes.
7. 7
   Chop half the sausage into smaller pieces. Add the sausage to the soup and bring to the boil. Serve hot with fresh bread.