New Year's Day Black-Eyed Pea Soup

Directions

Wash the beans well in cold water several times, then place in a large, heavy stew pot and cover with water.

Allow to soak overnight.

The next morning (start early-beans like to take their time), pour off the soaking water, and ham bone, 8 cups of water, onion and seasonings.

Put on the back of the stove and let simmer gently until beans are very tender, usually about 4 hours.

Add more water if needed.

Remove and discard ham bone.

If the water looks a bit scant pour in 1 to 2 cups more.

When beans are good and tender remove about a cup full of the beans and mash well with some of the bean liquid.

This can be done in a blender, of course.

Return mashed beans to pot, taste for seasoning, and serve steaming hot over freshly cooked white rice.