Aunt June’s Soup Beans
Makes 10 - 12 servings

Prep Time: 10 min.
Soaking Time: overnight
Cooking Time: 6 to 8 hrs.

Ingredients:

• 1 – pound dried pinto beans, washed and picked over for pebbles
• 2 – cups water
• 8 – ounces salt pork or 2 smoked ham hocks (1 pound)

Directions:

1. Soak beans in 7 cups of water overnight. Use a glass or ceramic container and do not drain.
2. Place the beans with the water in a saucepan and add the pork. Cover and simmer for 6 to 8 hours. Add water as needed to keep the beans covered.
3. When cooked, the beans hold their shape but are soft throughout.
4. Remove the pork and serve separate.
5. If desired, thicken the broth by boiling it down and masking in some cooked beans. You can also puree a cup of the beans in a food processor and return to the soup.

Member: America's Home Cooking Network