Ingredients

•1 (16 oz.) pkg. dried green split peas, rinsed

•1 meaty hambone, 2 ham hocks, or 2 cups diced ham

•3 carrots, peeled and sliced

•1/2 cup chopped onion

•2 ribs of celery plus leaves, chopped

•1 or 2 cloves of garlic, minced

•1 bay leaf

•1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, or 2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes

•1 tbsp. seasoned salt

•1/2 tsp. fresh pepper

•1 1/2 qts. hot water

Preparation

Layer ingredients in slow cooker in the order given; pour in water. Do not stir ingredients. Cover and cook on HIGH 4 to 5 hours or on low 8 to 10 hours until peas are very soft and ham falls off bone. Remove bones and bay leaf. Mash peas to thicken more, if desired. Serve garnished with croutons. Freezes well.