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Smoked Ham Kale & White Bean Soup (using dried beans)

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Making soup with dried beans is really easy and makes a full pot to feed a crowd. Just be sure to soak the beans in fresh water overnight. (They'll cook faster that way).

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Smoked ham hocks and bay leaves will add body and a nice smoky flavor to the soup.

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Cover the beans and ham hocks with water and bring them to a simmer. Cook until the beans are tender.  ~2 hours

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After the beans are tender, remove the ham hocks and bay leaves and discard.

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Puree several cups of the beans in a blender until smooth and add them back to the pot.

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Add fresh chopped veggies to the soup to simmer until tender.

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Add diced leftover ham, or use a ham steak (don't forget the bone - it's the best part!)

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Add chopped kale about 10 minutes before the soup is ready so it can cook down and get tender.

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This makes the best ham and bean soup for cooler weather. Enough to feed the whole family.

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Great served with biscuits or popovers, this healthy meal is one of our favorites.

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Make it soon.