Ham And Bean Soup

Directions

1. 1
   Rinse beans.
2. 2
   Place in Dutch oven with ham bone and water. Bring to boil.
3. 3
   Reduce heat and simmer, covered, until beans are tender, 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
4. 4
   Remove ham bone and meat.
5. 5
   Cool until it can be handled.
6. 6
   Chop meat and return to soup along with remaining ingredients.
7. 7
   Discard bone.
8. 8
   Simmer 30 minutes or more until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.
9. 9
   Add water if it gets too dry.