Black Eyed Pea & Sauerkraut Soup:

Soak 1-16oz package Black Eyed peas overnight. Drain & rinse. Bring 3 Qts water, Black Eyed Peas & 2# smoked ham hocks to a boil. Simmer 1 hour until beans are tender. Add 2 medium onions chopped, 3 medium carrots cut up, 3 ribs chopped celery, garlic, Thyme, crushed red pepper, salt & pepper to taste. Bring to boil & simmer 30 minutes till vegetables are tender. Add 1 – 14oz can diced tomatoes and 1# polish sausage sliced. Add 1 cup chicken broth or more until soupy again. Chop up and add 4 small potatoes. Simmer ½ hr. Add 1 – 2# fresh Sauerkraut drained & chopped. Add back ham & simmer ½ hr. Garnish with croutons or cheese.