1 lb. dried split peas, yellow or green
1/2 c. chopped onion
2 stalks celery with leaves, chopped
2 cups diced ham
2 cloves garlic, crushed
2 quarts. water
1 ham bone or sm. smoked ham hock
1 bay leaf, crushed
2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
Sprinkle of crushed cloves
2 large potatoes diced
3 carrots diced
Croutons, optional
Cover peas with water add onion and celery and soak overnight in cock pot on low heat. In the morning put peas, celery and onion through blender and puree.
Add to pan the pureed pea mixture and remaining ingredients. Simmer slowly 4-6 hours or until vegetables are tender. Add croutons if desired.