Ham and Bean Soup

A simple, hearty soup that tastes even better the next day. My mother made this soup every time we had a bone-in ham while I was growing up. I was surprised not to find a recipe for this soup here already, but there were none like it here. This soup calls for very few ingredients, so it is an economical way to use the bone from a ham. Few seasonings are added, as the ham itself is plenty flavorful. The number of servings will vary, depending on how much ham and water you use--I've estimated 8-10 servings, or about 4 quarts of soup (using the bone from a half ham).

• Ready In: 5 hrs 10 mins
• Serves: 8-10
• Yields: 4 quarts

Ingredients

• 1  meaty ham bone (from a half ham or picnic, cut extra meat into chunks to add to soup)
• 1  lb dried pinto bean
• 1  small onion, chopped
• 2 -3  slices bacon, chopped
• 1  garlic clove, crushed

Directions

1. Combine ingredients in a Dutch oven and fill with enough water to cover.
2. Bring to a boil and simmer 4-5 hours or more, skimming top occasionally. Add water as needed if level drops too low.