Bean Soup with Ham Recipe

Rinse beans thoroughly, removing any stones or bad beans.

Place water in a large stockpot and bring to a boil over high heat.

Add salt and beans and cover with lid. Remove from heat and let stand for 1 hour.

Return to high heat and add remaining ingredients, except ham. Bring to a boil and cook for 2 hours, or until beans are tender.

Stir in ham and simmer for 30 more minutes. At this point the soup should have thickened a bit. Add more white pepper and salt as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.