Step 1

Wash and drain the peas in a colander.

Step 2

In a small skillet, saute onions and garlic in oil over medium heat until soft, about 3 minutes.

Step 3

Transfer to the slow cooker and add peas, carrots, ham hock and chicken broth, cover and cook on LOW 10 hours, until the peas are tender.

Step 4

Remove ham hock and season with black pepper.

Step 5

Discard the skin of the ham hock and shred the pork off the bone, add back to the soup.