Simple Black Bean Soup

Rinse and sort the beans. Cover them with several inches of water and soak overnight.

Drain the beans and put in large pot.

Add the water, broth and ham hock. Bring to a boil then turn down to a simmer. Simmer for about 2 hours.

Add additional water if beans become visible.

Remove ham hock and let cool just until you can safely handle it.

Remove the skin from the ham hock and discard. Finely dice the meat and discard the bone.

Puree about half the beans in a blender or with a emulsion blender.

Return the pureed beans to the pot and add the diced ham.

Add seasonings and taste. Adjust if needed. ?