Southern Style Black-Eyed Peas

bacon , chopped

chopped onion

medium green bell pepper , chopped

chopped celery

garlic , minced

diced ham , optional

dried black-eyed peas , rinsed and picked through

room temperature water, chicken broth/stock or a combination

smoked ham hocks

jalapenos , ribs and seeds removed and chopped, or to taste, optional

kosher salt , or to taste

freshly cracked black pepper , or to taste

Cajun seasoning (like Slap Ya Mama ), or to taste, optional

bay leaves

Additional water or chicken broth or stock, as needed