After soaking, drain and rinse beans well. 1. Add beans to a large stockpot and cover with 8 cups of cold water. Add yellow onion, ham hock (use 2 for more flavor) and seasonings.

1. Pre-soak or pre-boil beans 1 hour before starting soup, as per directions. Save water. 2. In a 10-quart stainless-steel pot, place ham, celery, carrots, onions, garlic, parsley, seasonings, bay ...

Cured ham is heavily seasoned and salted. Avoid adding any seasonings that might overpower or conflict with the natural good taste of fresh vegetables. Beans and ham are a natural flavor combination.

Add beans, chicken base/water mixture and remaining spices. Add more chicken base and water for proper consistency and taste, if needed. Cook approximately one hour, stirring frequently.