1 lb. Great Northern beans
3 celery stalks, sliced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 or 2 bay leaves
2 tbsp. olive oil or canola oil
2 1/2 qts. cold water, divided
3 carrots, sliced
1 can (16 oz.) stewed tomatoes, cut up, or 16 oz. canned tomatoes

Soak beans overnight in 2 quarts water. Add remaining water to softened beans and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer 60 minutes or until beans are tender. Remove bay leaves before serving.