Split Pea Soup

Directions

1. 1
   In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, cover dried peas with 2 quarts of water.
2. 2
   Bring split peas to a boil; boil gently for 2 minutes.
3. 3
   Set aside to soak for 1 hour.
4. 4
   Add ham bone, chopped onion, garlic, and pepper.
5. 5
   Bring split pea soup to a boil; cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. 6
   Remove meat from bone; dice and return to pea soup with chopped celery and carrot.
7. 7
   Simmer split pea soup slowly for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8. 8
   Taste split pea soup and add salt.