1 pkg. Hamm beans or 2 c. mixed dried beans
1 ham bone or ham hock (or 1 lb. ham chunks)
2 1/3 tsp. bouquet garni (can buy in the spice section)
3 qts. water
28 oz. can tomatoes
2 lg. onions, chopped (2 c.)
4 ribs celery, chopped (2 c.)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb. smoked kielbasa or Polish sausage (optional)
Salt & pepper
Chopped fresh parsley

Rinse beans under cold running water. Drain. Place in 8 quart Dutch oven with ham bone, bouquet garni and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered 2 1/2 to 3 hours, adding water as necessary to keep beans covered. Add tomatoes, onions, celery and garlic. Simmer, covered, 1 1/2 hours. If using sausage, cut in 1" chunks and add. Simmer 30 minutes longer. Remove from heat; add salt and pepper. Sprinkle with parsley before serving. 10 (1 cup) servings without sausage.