Split Pea Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 c. dried split peas
3 qt. water
1 ham bone or small shank end of ham
1 large onion, minced
3 stalks celery, finely chopped
1 sprig parsley
salt and pepper

Preparation

Soak peas in water in a large kettle.
Bring to boil gently for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour. Add ham, onion and parsley.
Heat to boil; cover and simmer 2 to 2 1/2 hours, until peas are tender and liquid is partially cooked down.
Season to taste with pepper and salt.
For a smooth soup, put through a sieve.
Dilute as desired with additional milk or water.