Split Pea Soup (((Best Pea Soup Ever))) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 (16 ounce) bags split peas
2 medium carrots (diced)
1 large onion (diced)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (granulated)
2 medium potatoes (diced)
1 meaty ham bone or 2 smoked pork shanks
2 bay leaves
salt & pepper
crusty bread (optional)

Preparation

Place all ingredients into a large stew pot.
Cover ingredients with water about 2 inches above the top of the ingredients.
Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for about 3 hours, or until peas are pureed and slightly thickened.
Serve with a crusty bread if desired.