Navy Bean Soup

Step 1

Sort beans and place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and soak overnight. Or bring to a boil for 3 minutes, then cover, remove from heat and beans sit undisturbed for one hour.

Step 2

Drain bean water.

Step 3

Add remaining ingredients except celery and carrots to beans (including 7 cups water).

Step 4

Bring beans to a boil, then lower heat, cover, and simmer for about 90 minutes, stirring and skimming occasionally.

Step 5

Adjust cooking time if needed until beans are soft and tender.

Step 6

Add carrots and celery and cook for about half an hour.

Step 7

Fish out the ham hock, and when cool enough to handle, remove its meat and add the meat back to the pot.