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1
Place the peas in a large pot or bowl, cover with water by 2 inches and soak 8 hours or overnight. Drain the peas and set aside.
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2
Score the ham hock. Place in a pot, covered with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer 1 hour. Drain and set aside.
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3
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the celery and the carrots and cook, stirring, until just soft, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds.
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4
Add the ham hock and the ham and cook, stirring, until beginning to brown. Add the drained peas, salt, pepper, and pepper flakes, and cook, stirring for 2 minutes. Add 8 cups of water, the bayleaf and thyme, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the peas are tender, about 1 hour (add more water as needed, if the soup becomes too thick or dry).
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5
Remove the bay leaf and discard. Adjust the seasoning to taste, and serve immediately with Parmesan Truffled Chips on top.
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6
Parmesan Truffled Potato Chips:
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7
Heat the oil in a large, heavy pot to between 340 and 350 degrees.
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8
Pat the potatoes completely dry. Add to the oil in batches and cook until golden brown, stirring with a long handled spoon to turn and cook evenly, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels and place in a large bowl. Toss with the cheese, truffle oil, salt, and pepper. Serve immediately.
