Split Pea and Ham Soup

1 c. chopped onion
1 Tbl. butter
1 pound dry split peas
1 1/2 c. diced ham
4-6 c. chicken broth
salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in crock pot. I usually start out with 4 cups of chicken broth (or 4 c. water and 4 chicken boullion cubes). Add more water if needed later on. Cook on low for approx 6 hours or on high for about 4 hours. This soup is thick! Add more chicken broth to reach the consistently you like. Salt & pepper to taste. Be careful with the salt.... the broth is salty and so is the ham.
Garnish with a spoonful of sour cream and shredded swiss cheese (optional).