1 lb. dried beans
Sm. piece ham (bone or salt pork)
8 c. boiling water
1/2 bay leaf
3-4 peppercorns
3 whole cloves
1 diced carrot
3 ribs celery
1/2 sliced onion
1/2 c. freshly cooked & mashed potatoes

Beans should be washed and soaked overnight as directed on package (look for small stones).

Cook first 6 ingredients slowly for 2-3 hours. For last 30 minutes add the other 4 ingredients. Add water as needed, to cover beans. Serves 6.