Created by Dissie on October 16, 2011
Step 1: Place the beans after sorting them in a dutch oven, cover with 2 inches of water. Bring to a rapid boil and boil 2 minutes.
Step 2: Remove from heat and cover beans and let sit for 1 hour.
Step 3: Drain beans and add fresh water to the breans, atleast 3 inches over the top of the beans. Add in your ham bone or ham hock and the bay leaves at this time. Simmer this for atlteast 2 hours and the beans have softened. If the water evaporates, add more water and continue to simmer.
Step 4: Once the beans are tender, do not drain, add the rest of the ingredients and stir well.
Step 5: Simmer until the onion is soft and done. About 20 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the ham bone or ham hock and take off any ham that may be on them. Add meat to soup.
Step 7: Serve with crusty bread and enjoy!