Mediterranean Bean Soup (TNT)

We had this for dinner this week...It is a great hearty soup. ... you might want to try this soup for those cold winter nights!
Enjoy!
hugs,
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Mediterranean Bean Soup
* 2 cups dried great northern beans, sorted and soaked overnight OR
* 2 15 oz cans great northern beans, drained and rinsed
* 1 large meaty ham hock, baked, meat removed and diced
* 2 Tbsp olive oil
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 3 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
* 4 cans water
* 2 Tbsp mint
* 1 tsp oregano
* 1 tsp thyme
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 Tbsp red wine vinegar (I use Tarragon vinegar, but use
whatever you prefer)
* Salt and pepper, to taste

Saute onion, carrot, and celery in oil. Add garlic and seasonings and
saute 1 minute. Add tomatoes with juice by crushing them in your hand,
in batches. Stir and simmer 3 minutes. Add beans, ham hock meat, and
water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 2 hours
or until beans are cooked through and soft. Add vinegar and simmer,
uncovered, 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning and serve.



Recipe source: all simple recipes yahoo group, submitted by nutz4more.