This soup recipe is from my sister-in-law. It is perfect for this time of year. Smells so delicious when it is cooking. And…did you know that you can get a ham bone from your local butcher? Many times they will give it to you for free. Just ask!

2 cups Great Northern Beans
1 lb ham with bone
2 quarts water
2 teaspoons salt
1 Tablespoon olive oil
2 whole onions- chopped
1 garlic clove
3 whole potatoes cut 1″ thick
1 tablespoon parsley
3 large carrots cut 1″thick
3 stalks celery cut 1″ thick
1 teaspoon paprika

Cover beans with water and bring to boil. Let them sit for 1 hour and then drain. (If using beans from a can then skip this part).
Add 2 quarts water, salt, and ham. Let them simmer for 1 1/2 hours. Remove ham bone and cut off meat- shred it or dice it, return meat to soup.
Saute onion and garlic in olive oil- then add to soup. Stir in the rest of ingredients. Simmer until vegetables are to desired softness. Add pepper to taste.