1 1/2 c. bean mixture
1 ham bone + 1 lb. diced ham
2 lg. onions
2 bell peppers, chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
28 oz. can whole tomatoes
3 cloves garlic, crushed
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt & pepper to taste

Wash beans. Cover with water, add 1 tablespoon salt and soak for at least 3 hours or overnight. Drain and place in 6 or 8 quart Dutch oven with 2 quarts water or stock. Add ham bone and half of the onions, bell peppers, and celery. Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour, covered. Add remaining ingredients and cook an additional 2 to 3 hours or until soft.