Split Pea Soup

Directions

1. 1
   Place peas in a Dutch oven or soup kettle; add water to cover by 2-inches.
2. 2
   Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour.
4. 4
   Drain and rinse peas.
5. 5
   Discarding liquid.
6. 6
   Return peas to Dutch oven.
7. 7
   Add 2 1/2 quarts water, ham bone, onion, pepper, thyme and bay leaf.
8. 8
   Bring to a boil.
9. 9
   Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.
10. 10
    Remove ham bone; when cool enough to handle, remove meat form bone.
11. 11
    Discard bone; dice meat and return to soup.
12. 12
    Add carrots and celery.
13. 13
    Simmer, uncovered for 45-60 minutes, or until soup reaches desired thickness and vegetables are tender.
14. 14
    Discard bay leaf.