Split Pea Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried split peas (about 1 lb)
  
• 2 qts water
  
• 1 ham bone
  
• 1/2 cup minced onion
  
• 1 cup minced celery
  
• 1 sprig parsley
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  

Prep:
Combine peas and water in large kettle, heat to boiling and boil gently for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for an hour.

Heat to boiling and boil for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until peas are soft and mushy. Remove bone; trim meat from bone and add to soup. If you wish, thin the soup with milk or water and season to taste