15 Bean Soup

Submitted by Chris Baxter

1 lb. ham, ham hocks or smoked sausage
1 cup onion
1 - 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
1 tsp chili powder
Juice of 1 lemon
1 -2 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking Instructions

Traditional Method:
Soaking: Place beans in a large pot, cover with 2 quarts of water. Allow beans to soak overnight, or at least 8 hours.
1. After soaking, drain water, add 2 quarts of water and meat.
2. Bring beans to boil, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 1/2 hours.
3. After simmering, add onion, tomatoes, chili powder, lemon and garlic. Simmer another 30 minutes.
4. Add contents of ham packet 1-2 minutes before cooking is completed. Salt and pepper to taste.

Quickcook Method:
1. Place rinsed beans in a pot with 3 quarts water.
2. Bring to a rapid boil. Reduce heat, cover and continue boiling 60-70 minutes.
3. After 60 minutes, add ingredients. Simmer 30-45 minutes.
4. Add contents of ham packet 1-2 minutes before cooking is completed. Salt and pepper to taste.

Yield: approximately 3 quarts. Serves 14-16