1lb dried split peas - rinsed
1 med onion - chopped fine
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 large carrot shredded with a peeler
2 tsp salt
6 whole peppercorns
1 bay leaf
1 1/2 quart boiling water
1/2 tsp marjoram
pepper
ham hock (optional) Sometimes I can find a "fresh" hamhock at my Safeway, the smoked ones I find are all iffy
You could substitute some approved ham, but without the bone it's just not the same.
Put peppercorns and bay leaf in a tea strainer. Put all ingredients in crockpot except marjoram and pepper. Cover and cook on high 3 to four hours. Remove spices and add marjoram and pepper to taste.