1 lb. bag assorted dry beans
1 tbsp. salt
1 ham hock, optional
1 1/4 tsp. pepper
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 c. chopped celery
2 c. chopped onions
1 lg. can cooked tomatoes
1 lb. sliced smoked sausage
2 raw boneless chicken breast, chopped
Cooked rice
Chopped parsley, optional

Wash beans, mix and drain in fine sieve. Combine beans with salt, ham hock bone, pepper and garlic. Cover and simmer for 2 1/2-3 hours. Stir occasionally. Remove ham hock bone. Cut meat from bone, chop and return to soup. Add celery, onions and tomatoes. Simmer uncovered for 1 1/2 hours. Add sausage and chicken. Simmer for 40 minutes. Serve over scoop of rice and a little chopped parsley. Flavor improves with age. Freezes well.