Step 1

Rinse split peas under cold water until water runs clear. Drain.

Step 2

Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat - add carrot, celery, onion and garlic, stirring for 5 minutes or until onion softens.

Step 3

Add split peas, ham hocks and water. Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 2-2.15 hours or until ham hocks are tender and the meat is falling away from the bones. Set aside for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Remove ham hocks from pan. Remove meat from bones. Coarsely chop meat and set aside

Step 4

Place one quarter of pea mixture into bowl of a food processor and process until smooth. Return to pan with ham. Repeat with remaining pea mixture. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Stir over medium-heat for 5 minutes or until hot. Serve with crusty bread.