Beans & Ham
Ingredients:
• 1 lb dried great northern beans, rinsed
• 1 lb cooked ham, diced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
Method:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes, then add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the rinsed beans, diced ham, chicken broth, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 1½–2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add a little more broth or water if needed.
4. Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust the seasoning. Serve hot with warm cornbread or crusty bread. 
