Split Pea Soup

From Zonya's Lickety-Split Meals
Serves 10

3 1/2 c. dried split peas
3 celery stalks
3 carrots
1 lg. onion
4 c. water
2 cans (14 1/2 oz each) chicken broth, 1/3 less sodium
1 t. poultry seasoning
20 grinds fresh ground pepper
2 oz lean ham (opt)

8 to 11 hours before serving:
Rinse peas in a colander, pick over for stones and place in slow cooker. Chop veggies & place in slow cooker. Place remaining ingredients, except ham, in slow cooker and mix. Cook on HIGH 8-9 hours or on LOW 10-11 hours.

30 minutes before or just before serving:
Cut ham into small cubes. Add in the last 1/2 hour of cooking. Serve with crackers or cornbread, tossed salad, and low-fat frozen yogurt for dessert.

This was really good and so easy to throw together beforehand. My husband even loved it! --Keri