Mom s Purple-Hull Peas

1 ½ pounds frozen purple hull peas

8 ounces fresh okra

4 ounces bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

1 tablespoon white sugar

⅛ teaspoon baking soda

salt and pepper to taste

Place the purple hull peas into a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, add okra if using and boil for 2 minutes, stirring twice. Reduce heat to medium-low, add the bacon, sugar, baking soda, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer until tender, 1 1/2 to 2 hours.