6 cloves garlic
2 med. onions, minced
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 lb. blackbeans
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 fresh bay leaf
1 ham hock
3 tbsp. savory minced
1 lb. hot Italian sausage, cooked & drained
1 bell pepper, chopped
Cayenne pepper
Salt & pepper to taste

In large pot, saute garlic and onions in olive oil. Add ham, black beans, cumin, bay leaf, 1 tablespoon savory and 3 quarts water, season with cayenne, salt and pepper. Cook uncovered over medium heat for 2 hours. Remove bay leaf and ham.

Blend soup in food processor until smooth. Return to pot. Remove meat from ham and add to soup along with remaining savory, sausage and bell pepper. Simmer 30 minutes. Serve with sour cream and sherry if desired.