Split pea soup is a comfort foot that sticks to your ribs, and this traditional recipe will serve it up just like your mom always made it...with the convenience of a slow cooker. For a vegetarian option, substitute low-sodium vegetable broth for part or all of the water and omit the ham bone.
1 (16 oz) pkg. of dried green split peas, rinsed
1 meaty ham bone (equivalent to about 2 c. of ham)
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
1/2 c. chopped onion
2 ribs of celery plus leaves, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1/4 c. fresh parsley, chopped, or 2 t. dried parsley flakes
1/2 t. fresh pepper
1 1/2 qt. hot water