Bean Soup

Directions

1. 1
   Wash beans and put in kettle.
2. 2
   Add 2 1/2 quarts of water and bring to boil.
3. 3
   Boil, uncovered, for 2 minutes.
4. 4
   Cover and let stand 1 hour.
5. 5
   Add next 6 ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until beans are mushy.
6. 6
   Remove bay leaves and ham bone.
7. 7
   Remove any meat from bone and put back in soup.
8. 8
   Season to taste and if necessary, thicken with flour-water paste.
9. 9
   Makes about 2 1/2-quarts.
10. 10
    Can substitute with ham shanks.