White Acre Peas

Field peas are a big deal where i'm from.  Field peas include: pink eyed peas, black eyes peas, purple hull peas, butter beans, and white acre peas.  My favorites are the pink eyed and white acre peas.  They are easy to make and freeze well.  Every family has their own way of making them but here is mine.

White Acre Peas:

1/2 bushel of white acre peas (or any other field pea that you'd like)
1 slice of thick ham or 4 slices of bacon (omit if you'd like to make this a vegetarian dish)
Salt and Pepper to taste

Wash the shelled peas to make sure they're free of dirt or sand
Pour into a deep pot and fill with water.
Chop bacon or ham (I like bacon, but who doesn't) and add to pot of peas
Place a lid on the pot and let boil, stirring occasionally until the peas are tender, about 30-35 minutes