10 Bean Soup With Ham

Ingredients

• 3 cups ham (cubed)
• 16 oz. package of ten bean soup mix
• 2 celery ribs (chopped)
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and chopped)
• 1/2 medium sized yellow onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic (chopped)
• 3 bay leaves
• 4 medium sized potatoes (peeled and cubed)
• 2 heaping tablespoons chicken soup base or bullion
• 3 strips of bacon (chopped and browned)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Soak beans in medium stock pot overnight according to bean package directions.

Add more water to beans until pot is about 1/2 to 3/4 full.  Add chicken soup base, bay leaves, onions, pepper, and garlic.  Allow to simmer on medium heat for about 2 - 2 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally.  Add potatoes, carrots, celery, ham, and bacon.  Add more water if needed and continue to simmer for about another 1 - 1 1/2 hours, stirring occasionally, or until veggies are tender.

~ This was tonight's dinner, and a hearty 2 day meal as well.  You can add more, or less of the vegetables I've listed, depending on how you like it.  If you prefer more garlic and onion, don't be afraid to add more.  I taste it as it simmers and make additions as well, such as more black pepper.  I'll be serving this with home made bread and/or crackers.  Great for chilly winter nights. ~