SPICY BEAN SOUP
By Becky Melendez

2 cups mixed dried beans*
2 tablespoons salt
2 quarts water
3 cups diced ham or sliced smoked sausage
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
⅛ cup chili powder
1 28 oz. can tomatoes
1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

*Use any combination of beans, great northern, navy, black, garbanzo, green split peas, pinto, red, soy……

Cook beans in salt and water until done. Add ham or sausage, onion, garlic, chili powder and tomatoes. Add more water if needed. Simmer for another 15 minutes, then add lemon juice. Good with homemade bread and butter.