Multi-Bean Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1 (1 lb. 4 oz.) pkg. dried 15-bean soup mix
2 small ham hocks
3 qt. water
3 large cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp. dried thyme
1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium carrot, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1/2 green pepper, chopped
2 tsp. sugar
salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Wash beans thoroughly and place in large bowl covered with water.
Cover and soak overnight; drain.
Place ham hocks in Dutch oven; add water, garlic, thyme and red pepper.
Bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat.
Simmer hocks for 1 1/2 hours.
Add beans and continue cooking for another hour.
Add remaining ingredients and cook for 30 minutes more
or until beans and vegetables are done.
Yields 10 servings.