2 1/2 c. Bean Mix (follows)
2 1/2 qt. water
4-5 slices bacon, chopped
1 lg. onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1/2 or more bell pepper, chopped
2 diced carrots
3 c. diced potatoes
1 lg. clove garlic, minced
2 tsp. cumin
1 (16 oz.) can whole tomatoes, undrained, mashed
2 c. cooked, cubed ham
Basil to taste
Salt & Pepper to taste

Rinse beans in strainer. Put in kettle with 1 quart water and soak overnight. Add 1 1/2 quarts water in the morning; bring to a boil and simmer an hour. Add the 2 cups ham. Meanwhile, saute bacon, onion, celery, bell pepper, carrots, potatoes and garlic. Add cumin and tomatoes to saute and simmer 10 to 15 minutes. Add to beans; add seasoning. Finish cooking until done.

BEAN MIX:

Use 1 (1 lb.) package of each of the following: Dried black beans Dried navy beans Split peas Black-eyed peas Lentils Dried red beans Dried pinto beans Great Northern beans