Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 pound dry navy beans
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 cups diced ham
• 6 cups chicken broth

Directions

1. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let soak overnight.
2. Drain the beans and place in a slow cooker.
3. Add the onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, salt, pepper, ham and chicken broth.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours, until the beans are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaves and serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• This soup is best served with crusty bread or a garden salad.
• You can also add other vegetables to the soup such as potatoes, corn, or green beans.
• To make the soup even heartier, add cooked diced chicken or turkey.
• This soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and have it on hand for a quick and easy meal.