Split Pea Soup

  16 Oz dried green split peas, rinsed                              

  2 Cup diced ham                                                           

  3 carrots, peeled & sliced                                              

  2 stalks celery + leaves, chopped                                  

  2 Clove of garlic, minced                                              

  1 bay leaf

  1 tsp salt

  ½ tsp black pepper                                                         

  1 1/2 Qt hot water

Layer ingredients in slow cooker then pour in water. DO NOT STIR. Cover and cook on high 4 to 5 hours or on low 8 to 10 hours WITHOUT STIRRING until peas are very soft. Remove bay leaf. Serve garnished with croutons. *Freezes well*