Ingredients
1 package (12 ounces) mixed dried beans8 cups water1/2 pound ground beef, cooked and drained1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained1 cup chopped celery1 tablespoon salt1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes2 garlic cloves, minced1 teaspoon dried thyme2 bay leavesPepper to taste
Preparation
Rinse and sort beans. Place beans in a Dutch oven or soup kettle; add water to cover by 2 in. Bring to a boil; boil for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat; cover and let stand for 1 to 4 hours or until beans are softened.
Drain and rinse, discarding liquid. Add water to the beans; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Add remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 1-1/2 to 2 hours or until beans are tender. Discard bay leaves.
