Instructions

  1. Soak beans overnight in 4 quarts water.
  2. Drain. Combine beans, onions, green pepper, garlic, ham, oil, cumin, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and 3 cups fresh water.
  3. Stir well.
  4. Cover.
  5. Cook on Low 8-10 hours, or High 4-5 hours.
  6. For a thick soup, remove half of cooked bean mixture and puree until smooth in a blender or mash with potato masher.
  7. Return to cooker.
  8. If you like a soup-ier soup, leave as is.
  9. Add vinegar and stir well.
  10. Debone ham, cut into bite-sized pieces and return to soup.
  11. Serve in soup bowls.
  12. Can be topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro.