This ham and bean soup recipe is the perfect hearty and healthy winter meal.
Add beans to a pot and cover with water. Leave out at room temperature overnight. When you are ready to use the beans drain and rinse them.
Melt butter in a large pot over medium high heat. Add in onions, carrots and celery and saute until tender, 4-5 minutes.
Remove half of the vegetables from the pot and add them to a blender. Puree until smooth and lump free.
Add beans, water, garlic powder, ham bone, bay leaves, fresh thyme and pureed vegetables to the pot. Simmer for 1 hour covered or until the beans are tender..
Add the potatoes and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh parsley.