SENATE BEAN SOUP

Wash and soak overnight in large kettle 1 lb white beans in water to cover. Next morning add water to make, 5 qts. Add a smocked hambone with some meat on it. Simmer about 2 hours or until beans begin to mush. Add 3 medium potatoes which have been cooked and mashed, 1 c each chopped onion and celery, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Simmer 1 hour. Remove bone, Cut up meat, and return to soup. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Yield: 4-1/2 qt.

Source: Bea Spaniol