1 c. navy beans
1 1/2 qt. water
1 meaty ham bone or ham hock
1/4 c. instant mashed potatoes
1 1/2 c. finely chopped onions
Salt & pepper to taste
2 finely chopped celery stalks with leaves
1 clove garlic, pressed
1/8 c. finely chopped parsley

Soak beans overnight in water. Add ham bone, cover and simmer until beans are just beginning to soften (about 1 hour). Add mashed potatoes and stir until smooth. Add onion, celery, garlic and parsley; simmer another hour until beans are soft. Add more water if needed, but soup should be very thick. Season to taste with salt and pepper. About 4 servings.