Step 1: Place beans in a pot then add water to cover by 3-inches; bring to a boil then boil for about 5 minutes then remove from the heat, cover and let stand for 2 to 4 hours or until beans are softened.
Step 2: Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid.
Step 3: In a large pot or Dutch oven heat oil over medium-high heat(use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pot) add in onions and celery; cook until tender (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add in garlic, dried thyme and cayenne; cook for 2 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the beans, broth, water, potato flakes or mashed potato, Worcestershire sauce, seasoned salt, black pepper and bay leaves, then add in the ham bone; bring to a boil then reduce heat, cover and simmer partially covered for about1-1/2 hours or until beans are tender.
Step 6: Discard bay leaves.
Step 7: Remove ham bone; and set aside until cool enough to handle, then remove ham from bone and cut into cubes.
Step 8: Discard bone. Return the chopped ham to soup and heat through.
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