1 lb. dried split green peas, rinsed & drained
8 c. water
2 carrots, scrubbed but not peeled, cut into 8ths
2 med. yellow onions, cut into 8ths
3 cloves garlic, quartered
2 stalks celery with leaves, cut into 8ths
4 oz. lean ham, visible fat removed, cut into bite-size pieces
3 tbsp. low-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. chopped fresh oregano or 1/2 tsp. dried oregano
1/2 tsp. grated fresh ginger or 1/8 tsp. dried ginger
3 dashes hot pepper sauce, or to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

In large saucepan or Dutch oven, bring peas, water, carrots, onions, garlic, celery and ham to rapid boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and cook, covered, at gently rolling boil, 1-1 1/2 hours or until peas are soft.