2 lbs. Navy beans
4 carrots, diced
9 pieces smoked ham hock or a large meaty ham bone
4 stalks celery, diced
2 large onions, cut up
4 cloves garlic, minced

Soak beans overnight in a large pot of water. Add other ingredients and simmer for a minimum of 4 hours, or longer. Season to taste with salt, pepper, garlic and onion powder (optional). To thicken, remove a cup or so of the beans and mash or puree in food processor or blender. Return to pot.

Serve or refrigerate. Tastes even better the following day.