1 lb. red kidney beans
2 qts. cold water
2 stalks celery, chopped fine
1 green pepper, chopped fine
1 bunch scallions, chopped fine
3 med. onions, chopped fine
1 lb. sliced hot sausage (3 or 4)
Pinch of thyme
4 bay leaves
Cayenne pepper or Tabasco sauce, according to taste
Salt and pepper accordingly
Ham bone or raw ham, cut in cubes

Rinse beans twice. Cook beans and meat on medium heat. When it starts to boil add vegetables and spices. When it returns to boiling, turn down heat, cover and cook for 3 hours. Stir and mash 1/4 of beans with wooden spoon. Cook 40 minutes longer. Add salt and pepper.