1 lb. green split peas
1 ham shank or bone
2 qts. water
1 tsp. salt
1 c. finely chopped carrots
1 c. finely chopped sweet potato
1 c. finely chopped onion
1/2 c. finely chopped celery
1/2 tsp. ground marjoram
1 tsp. dried basil
1-2 cloves minced garlic
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 c. white cooking wine (optional)

Put the split peas and ham shank in a large pot with the water and salt. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 1 hour. (Skim off any foam and discard it).

Food processor works great for chopping vegetables.

Add the vegetables and herbs; simmer the soup for about 1 hour. Remove ham shank/bone, remove meat, chop and return it to the soup. Add the wine and pepper and bring the soup back to a simmer.