White Bean 'N' Ham Soup

This is one of my favorite go to soups! Trust me the picture does not do it justice.  It is a very flavorful and delicious soup. It is quick, simple and pretty cheap, especially if you soak your own beans.  I know it is not soup season, but my sister has been wanting me to get this recipe up for awhile now. So here you go Candice..

White Ham 'N' Bean Soup
3 cans (15 1/2 oz.) great northern beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup carrots, diced
1/2 cup onion, diced
2 Tablespoons butter
3 cups water
1 1/2 cups diced ham
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf

Mash one can of beans then  place everything in the crockpot, mix and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Salt and pepper to taste.  Remove the bay leaf before serving. 
*If you want a quicker version: Saute the onion and carrots in the butter until slightly tender in a large saucepan. Mix in the rest of the ingredients and cook over medium heat until heated through. Remove bay leaf.

**I love it if I have a ham bone to throw in the crock pot with everything else.  It just adds some great flavor.  Remove a few minutes before serving, remove the meat add to your soup. Season if needed.

I love to serve it with fresh french bread!!

  YUM!!