Split Pea/Vegetable Soup - National Soup Month

1 lb. dried split peas (2 cups)

3 qts. water

1 meaty ham bone

2 tsp. salt*

1/2 tsp pepper

1/4 tsp marjoram leaves

1 1/2 c chopped onions

3/4 c. chopped carrots

3/4 chopped celery

chopped garlic clove

Combine peas and water in a large kettle. Bring to a boil; simmer 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover and let stand one hour.

Add ham bone, salt, pepper, marjoram, and onions. Cover and simmer 1 1/2 hours.

Add carrots and celery. Continue simmering until tender, 30-40 minutes. Serve hot. Makes about 3 1/2 quarts.

*I always taste it before adding any salt. You'll definitely need less than 2 teaspoons if your ham is salty.