Traditional Southern Conch Peas

(Makes 4 Cups) 

Ingredients:

• 1 Cups Carolina Conch Peas 
• 1/4 pound smoked ham or  Turkey
• 1 Medium Onion Diced
• 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
• 1 Teaspoon Fresh Thyme
• 1 Teaspoon Diced Fresh Pasley
• 1 Seeded and Stemmed Jalapeno or Serano Chili Diced (optional)
• 3-4 Cups Water
• Fresh Ground Pepper

Directions:

Rinse, pick through and soak the peas in cold water overnight or quick soak them with boiling water for 1 hour. Put the peas in a thick bottom pot with 2 cups water, 1 teaspoon salt and the meat and cook for 1 hour. Sauté the onions and herbs in butter until soft. Add them to the pot with the remaining ingredients and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil then simmer for 30 minutes or until the peas are soft. Taste and season with pepper.