Gramma's Split Pea Soup

2lb Smoked Ham Shank or Pork Hock - Look for dark for more flavour.
2 Bags Split Peas - rinsed and sorted
2 Bay Leaves
2 Tbsp dry Minced Onion - or a large onion, finely chopped.
1/4 tsp Black Pepper

Put all in soup pot - then fill 2/3 to 3/4 full with water.
High until start to boil, then down to medium heat.
Let cook 1.5 hrs
Remove scum.

Cook until meat falls off the bone - break it down, removing bones and add meat back to soup.

Add:
4 Carrots - large, cut up
2 C Potatoes - cubed

Cook until all cooked down - 2-3 hours total.

Enjoy!