1 3/4 c. dried black beans, rinsed
1 white onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 3/4 lb. ham hocks
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 (4 oz.) pkg. salt pork, cut into 1/4 in. pieces
2 tsp. white pepper
1/2 tsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. oregano
2 tsp. salt

In a large kettle, combine beans, 16 cups water, onion, carrots, celery, pork and ham. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes. Next, add the remaining ingredients. Simmer for 2 hours. Discard the ham hocks. Let cool. In a blender or food processor, puree the mixture in batches. Makes 15 cups. Serves 8.