1 pound dried split peas
8 cups water
1 small onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 ribs celery chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 Tbsp. granulated chicken bouillon
1 tsp. hot sauce
One half tsp. dried thyme
1 tsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 ham bone
1 cup chopped baked ham
Salt and pepper to taste

Place split peas in a bowl and cover with cold water. Allow to sit for 1 - 2 hours. Drain water from peas and place peas in a Dutch oven. Place 8 cups of water over peas. Add remaining ingredients and simmer for 1 - 2 hours or until peas and vegetables are tender. Serve warm in individual bowls; you may top with grated cheese if you wish.

The Skinny: Use your favorite sugar substitute and the leanest ham you can find. You can also boil the ham bone in the water for 15 to 20 minutes prior to adding the other ingredients to get more flavor.