Black-Eyed Peas and Ham

Rinse black-eyed peas with cold water. In a large saucepan, combine peas and the 4 cups water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover with foil and let stand for 1 hour. (Or, in a large saucepan, combine black-eyed peas and the 4 cups water. Cover with foil and let soak in a cool place overnight.)

Drain and rinse peas; drain again. Return peas to saucepan. Stir in the 2 cups water, ham, onion, and salt. If desired, stir in carrot and serrano pepper. Bring to boiling; reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer about 1 hour or until peas are tender.

Stir in undrained tomatoes. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes (most of the liquid should be evaporated).