Favorite Quebec Pea Soup

Directions

Heat water and peas in saucepan over high heat. Bring to a boil for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and set aside for 1 hour. Add salt pork or smoked ham, ham hock, bay leaves, onion, heat.

Reduce and simmer, cover and cook for about 1½ hours until peas are tender, stirring frequently. If necessary, skim off fat. If using salt pork, remove form soup, cut into small pieces, and return to soup. Remove ham hock and discard. Add salt and pepper to taste.