The Great Northern Soup

Wash 3-4 cups of Great Northern Beans
If they are new beans, soak 1-2 hours. If they are last year’s beans, soak overnight.
Drain and place in Dutch oven. Cover with enough fresh water to reach about one-inch over the top of the beans.
Add two meaty smoked ham hocks, three to four bay leaves, approximately one tablespoon liquid minced garlic, one small onion (chopped) and pepper to taste. Two to three medium peeled and diced potatoes can also be added an hour before the soup is ready to serve if you wish.
Cook on low and check often. Add more water if needed. The soup should be cooked to taste and until the beans are done.