SPLIT PEA SOUP

1-1/2 Cups Dried split peas
Ham Bone (optional)
2-inch cube salt pork
1 onion chopped
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
Salt
Freshly ground pepper

Soak th peas over night in water to cover. Add enough water
to the soaking liquid to make 2-1/2 quarts. Put the peas and
liquid in a large soup pot, and the ham bone if you are using it, and the salt pork and onion. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, for 1-1/2 to 2
hours or until the peas are soft. Discard the salt pork.
Put through a strainer or a vegetable mill or puree the soup
in a blender or food processor. Melt the butter in a small
sauce pan, stir in the flour, and cook over low heat for a
few minutes. Add the milk, stirring constantly, and cook
until smooth and thickened. Stir this sauce into the soup and add salt and pepper to taste.