Walkadee's White Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Using a large stock pot of at least 10 quarts: heat one tablespoon of olive oil to saute onions,carrots and celery for 10 minutes until soft, add garlic and continue cooking five minutes more.
2. 2
   Add beans that have been rinsed and sorted and cover with enough water to exceed top of beans by 3 inches.
3. 3
   Bring to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer.
4. 4
   Simmer uncovered allowing flavors to concentrate in broth.
5. 5
   In a separate pan cook ham hocks in enough water to cover by the same three inches until meat will fall off bones ( about one hour).
6. 6
   Remove hocks and cool until easy to handle ( about 10 minutes).
7. 7
   ; Retain cooking liquid.
8. 8
   Remove meat from bones discarding fat and bones ( or save for your dog).
9. 9
   Add meat and reserved cooking liquid to bean pot.
10. 10
    Add spices at this point and continue cooking beans ( uncovered)for approximately one more hour until beans are very tender.
11. 11
    Using a potato masher mash beans in pot to thicken soup.
12. 12
    Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
13. 13
    Serve hot with cornbread or rolls.