2 lbs. Great Northern or Navy beans
1 tbsp. baking soda
1 ham bone
1/2 to 3/4 c. sugar (to taste)
2 to 3 tbsp. molasses

The night before cooking, wash and pick over beans. Cover with water and soak overnight.

In the A.M., rinse with fresh water, cover again with water and bring to boil. SLOWLY, add baking soda. Soda will cause water to foam and boil over, so be careful. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes. Drain, rinse and again barely cover with fresh water. Add ham bone, salt and pepper. Cook 1 1/2 to 2 hours on medium low heat until done. Add sugar and molasses; mix well. Pour into baking pan or dish. Bake at 350 to 375 degrees until lightly brown and bubbly. If desired, more salt can be added before baking.

Betty Perschell is a lovely "Yankee" who has adopted N.C. as her home. She is a member of Mount Sylvan UMC.