1 lb. mixed beans
2-2 1/2 qt. water
A meaty ham bone or about 1 lb. ham or kielbasa
Salt & pepper to taste
1/4 c. minced parsley
28 oz. can tomatoes (about 1 qt.)
2 onions, chopped
6 ribs celery, chopped
1 bell pepper (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. dried red pepper flakes

Cover beans with water. Bring to a boil. Cook 2 minutes. Remove from heat. Cover and let stand 1 hour. Drain and rinse. Add 2 quarts water and ham/kielbasa. Simmer 45 minutes. Remove ham and cut up meat. Return meat to pot with remaining ingredients. Bring to boil, lower heat and simmer 20-30 minutes.

More water or 1/2 cup red wine may be added if you prefer. Soup is usually better the second day.