Split Pea and Cannellini Bean Chowder

My family really likes this recipe. I cook it in a 10-inch Dutch Oven.




4 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups of chopped onions
3 large garlic cloves, chopped
7 cups chicken stock
1 cup beef stock
2 teaspoons oregano, dried
1 teaspoon pepper
salt to taste depending on saltiness of stock
1 pound dried split peas
2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans
2 cups of thick cut ham, cubed

Heat a large stock pot to medium high heat and add olive oil and onions. Saute for about 8 - 10 minutes or until the onions are translucent. Add garlic and saute an additional minute. Add both stocks, the oregano, pepper, salt to taste, and split peas. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 45 - 55 minutes. The peas should be just beginning to soften. Add the cannellini beans and ham and simmer an additional 5 - 10 minutes.