SOUP'S ON

IT'S COLD OUT...............SOUP'S ON! SENATE BEAN SOUP, THAT IS. IT'S A TRADITION WITH THE BOYS (AND LADIES) DOWN IN THE GEORGIA SENATE TO SERVE THIS SOUP WHEN THE LEGISLATURE CONVENES AFTER THE HOLIDAYS IN JANUARY. THEY HAVE THEIR OWN PERSONAL COOK WHO MAKES IT EVERY YEAR. I MAKE MY OWN. RECIPE BELOW.

SENATE BEAN SOUP

1 package dried navy beans

1 thick slice ham (I used left over ham bone from Christmas ham)

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

3 large carrots, peeled, chopped

2 large potatoes, peeled, chopped

2 medium onions, chopped

1 chicken bouillon cube

salt and pepper to taste

Soak beans overnight in 6 cups of water. Next morning, drain. Cover with 6 cups water (may add more), ham and oil. Cook until beans are tender - about 2 hours. Add carrots, potatoes, onion and bouillon.

Cook slowly in covered roaster until potatoes dissolve into a thick broth - several hours.

ENJOY!