Created by QueenBea on November 20, 2011
Step 1: In large bowl, soak peas in 6 cups water for 12 hours or up to 24 hours.
Step 2: Drain and Rinse.
Step 3: Place in slow cooker.
Step 4: Add 6 cups water, ham bone, onion, celery, carrots, garlic, bay leaf, liquid smoke and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Cover and cook on low until vegetables are tender, about 6 hours.
Step 6: Discard hambone and bay leaf.
Step 7: Mix red onions with vinegar if using.
Step 8: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with spoonfuls of onion mixture.