Hernekeitto - Finnish Pea Soup

With a big bowl of this hearty soup and a grilled cheese sandwich, you'll be able to weather any chilly evening.

Recipe Ingredients:

1/2 pound split green peas
8 cups cold water
1 pound ham hocks
1 teaspoon crushed dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Directions:

1. Rinse split green peas and soak in cold water overnight.
2. Bring the peas and soaking water to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 1 hour, or until the peas begin to soften. Add ham hocks continue to simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the peas and meat are thoroughly cooked.
3. When the meat is tender, remove it from pot, discard the skin and bone, cut the meat into cubes, then return to the soup. Season with marjoram, dry mustard, salt, and pepper. Heat through.

Makes 8 servings.