Ham and Bean Slow Cooker Soup

 It is always soup season in our house, but especially when the weather turns cold.  Slow simmered all day, this spicy slow cooker goodness will warm you to your bones.  Add some cornbread and you have soup for days!!

Ham and Bean Slow Cooker Soup

• 20 ounce package of dried 15 bean soup mix (found with the dry beans)
• 1 diced onion
• 2 large cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1.5 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1.5 - 2 quarts of chicken or beef stock
• 1 tablespoon of siracha or other hot sauce
• 1 pound diced ham
• 1 large ham hock
• 1 teaspoon each: salt, fresh ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1 cup carrots

Rinse the beans very well in a strainer. Discard the seasoning packet that comes with the beans.  Once beans are rinsed, put all the ingredients (start with 1.5 quarts of stock) except salt into the slow cooker.  Cook on high for 6 hours.  Check around hour 4 or 5 and add more stock if you want it soupier.  Make sure it doesn't dry out completely.  After the beans are completely soft, taste and salt as needed.  Remove bay leaves and serve. 

We serve with a slice of sweet cornbread at the bottom of the bowl and then scoop the beans on top.  Garnish with cheese and sour cream if desired.  Makes great leftovers and freezes well!

Adapted from: Ham and Bean Soup - Easy Peasy Meals (eazypeazymealz.com)