2 tbsp. salt
2 qt. water
2 ham hocks or bouillon cubes
1 lg. onion, chopped
1 can tomatoes, chopped
1 pod red pepper, optional
1 lemon, juiced
Salt & pepper to taste

To make soup: Dump 2 cups of bean mix into a sieve and rinse thoroughly. Place in a large kettle, cover with water and add the salt. Soak overnight.

In the morning drain well and add 2 quarts water and ham hock. Bring to boil and simmer 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Add onion and tomatoes, red peppers, lemon juice, salt and pepper. Simmer another half hour. (Can make ahead and freeze.)