15 Bean Soup

Instructions

1. Rinse beans and drain. Sort any unwanted debris and set seasoning packet aside.
2. Place beans in a large pot of cool water. Cover and allow to soak at least 8 hours or overnight. After soaking, drain water.
3. Add water and broth to a large pot
4. If using smoked ham hock, add with the water and broth to a large pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook 1 hour. (Note: if using ham bone, leftover ham or smoked sausage, it can be added along the beans in the step below and does not need to pre-cook.)
5. Add, onion, garlic, and drained beans and reduce heat to a simmer, and cover. Cook 1 ½ to 2 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Stir in tomatoes, chili powder, and lemon juice. Simmer uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until thickened.
7. Stir in the seasoning packet from the beans and season with salt & pepper to taste. Simmer 1 minute more.