Ham and Bean Soup

Summary
Prep time	2 hrs
Cook time	4+ hrs
Source	Taste of Home
Yield / serves	18 servings (~4 1/2 qts)
Rating	Good

Ingredients

• 1 pkg (20 oz) 15-bean blend
• 5 qts water, divided
• 1 lb fully cooked ham, cubed
• 2 smoked or precooked bratwurst links, sliced
• 1/2 c chopped onion
• 1/2 c chopped celery
• 1/2 c sliced carrots
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 T Worcestershire sauce
• 1 t dried basil
• 3/4 t salt
• 3/4 t pepper
• 1/2 t dried marjoram
• 1/2 t hot pepper sauce
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies

Preparation

Rinse beans; place in Dutch oven with 3 qts water. Bring to a boil for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat; cover and let stand 1 hour.

Drain and rinse beans. Return to pan; add remaining water and next 13 ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until beans are almost tender. Add tomatoes and chilies; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 30 minutes.