Step 1

Cover black eyed peas with water. Sit on counter for 8 hours or overnight. Drain water.

Step 2

In the bottom of a 6 quart dutch oven or similar, fry bacon until crisp. Remove to paper towels, reserve drippings.

Step 3

To the drippings add onion, celery and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes or until tender and beginning to brown. Add garlic, cook 1 minute longer.

Step 4

To the pot add, black eyed peas, ham, tomatoes, collards, Cajun seasoning, salt, cumin and lemon pepper. Add 6 cups chicken broth. Mix well.

Step 5

Bring to a boil then lower heat to medium. Cook for 30 minutes. Check level of broth and add 1 or 2 cups of reserved broth, or to your taste. Continue to cook for another 20-30 minutes over medium or until black eyed peas are tender.

Step 6

Mix bacon into the soup or sprinkle on top. Serve garnished with green onion and a slice of cornbread, if desired.