INGREDIENTS
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2 cups navy beans -- soaked overnight
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6 strips crispy fried bacon -- minced
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3 medium carrots -- minced
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3 medium celery stalks -- minced
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1 medium onion -- minced
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1/2 teaspoon thyme
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2 cloves garlic -- minced
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4 ounces tomato paste
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1 dash red pepper flakes
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6 cups water, more if needed
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2 cups ham stock, if available -- decrease water
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1 tablespoon wine vinegar
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few drops liquid Barbecue Smoke -- optional
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salt and pepper -- to taste