2 1/4 c. green split peas, dried
2 1/2 qts. water
1 meaty ham bone, can of Spam (cut into pieces), or leftover ham pieces
1 1/2 c. sliced onions
1/2 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. marjoram
1 c. diced celery
1 c. diced carrots
1 tsp. parsley flakes
Salt to taste

Cover peas with water and soak overnight or boil 2 minutes and let sit for 1 hour. Drain. Add 2 1/2 quarts water, ham bone, onion, and seasonings. Bring to a boil; cover and simmer 2 hours. Stir occasionally. Remove bone; cut off any bits of meat and return the meat to the soup. Add remaining ingredients. Cook slowly, uncovered, until as thick as you like it. Serves 8 to 10.