BLACK-EYED PEAS WITH COUNTRY HAM

Steps:

• The night before you want to serve the cooked peas, check through the peas and remove any stones or peas that are damaged; place peas in large bowl, cover with cold water to 2 inches over top of peas; allow to sit overnight.
• The next day, rinse peas thoroughly; set aside.
• In a large dutch oven or soup pot, heat oil or grease; add chopped onions, ham and freshly ground black pepper; saute until onions begin to brown.
• Add pressed garlic and saute for 30 seconds; immediately add peas and enough water to cover by at least 2-3 inches; bring to boil over high heat, reduce heat to low/medium-low; simmer, covered, for 2 hours, stirring occasionally and adding water as needed.
• Add ham soup base and salt; continue simmering, covered, for 1 hour.
• Taste for seasoning and adjust as desired. Peas are ready to serve when tender and seasoned to your liking.
• Refrigerate leftovers.