Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
  16      ounces        dried black-eyed peas
   3      cups          water
   1      pound         ham steak cut into 1/2-inch cubes
   6                    pearl onions
   3                    bay leaves
   1      teaspoon      pepper
     1/2  teaspoon      salt

Preparation:

Sort and wash peas; place in a large Dutch oven. Cover with water, and bring to a boil; cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and let soak 1 hour; drain. Combine peas, 3 cups water, and remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 hour or until peas are tender. Remove bay leaves.