4 c. dried kidney beans
1 lb. country ham (Tasso), coarsely chopped
1 med. onion, chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1 bay leaf
1 tbsp. butter
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. pepper

Wash beans, place in large saucepan. Cover with water, 2 inches above beans, let soak overnight. Drain well.

Place beans in large Dutch oven with water to cover. Bring to a boil. Add ham, onion, carrot, bay leaf, butter, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered 1 1/2 hours or until beans are tender. Remove and discard bay leaf. Serve over hot rice.