Black-Eyed Peas - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 bag black-eyed peas
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 lb. ham, cubed (for seasoning)
salt and pepper
3 qt. water
1 celery stalk, chopped
1 small bell pepper, chopped
1 to 2 Tbsp. shortening
3 bay leaves

Preparation

Soak peas overnight.
Rinse several times; add peas to water with onion, garlic, celery and shortening.
Cover and cook for 1 hour on medium heat.
Turn down low; add ham, seasoning and bay leaves.
Cover and cook for 2 hours more or until done.