Created by KittenCal on October 8, 2011
Step 1: Sort and wash beans; place in a large Dutch oven.
Step 2: Cover with water to 2 inches above beans; cover and let stand 8 hours; drain beans.
Step 3: Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat (use enough oil to coat the bottom of the pot).
Step 5: Add onion and cook for about 3 minutes or until almost softened.
Step 6: Add in garlic, chili flakes, thyme and oregano; cook 2 minutes.
Step 7: Add beans, broth, and next 5 ingredients; bring to a boil partially covered, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 2 1/2 hours seasoning with salt and more black pepper about halfway through.
Step 8: Remove ham hock from pan; cool slightly.
Step 9: Remove ham from bone; finely chop and return meat to pan.
Step 10: Discard bones, skin and fat, then discard bay leaf.
Step 11: Season with salt and pepper to taste.