Split Pea Soup

Combine split peas, onion, garlic, bouillon cubes, bay leaf and water in 8-quart pot. Bring to boiling, breaking up cubes with wooden spoon. Reduce heat to medium-low; simmer, uncovered, 1 hour.

Stir mixture in pot. Add ham, celery, carrot and thyme. Simmer, stirring occasionally, 1 hour or until desired smoothness. Add black pepper and liquid hot-pepper sauce.

Remove fresh thyme sprigs if using, bay leaf and garlic cloves. Adjust seasonings, if necessary. Stir in pimiento. Serve warm. Makes 10 cups.