mama's pot of beans

How To Make mama's pot of beans

• 
  Step 1
  Any type of beans you prefer will work. I normally use pinto beans, but you could use navy beans or whatever. Place beans in a large pot and cover with water. Soak the beans for about 12 hours, or overnight. Strain the water off the beans and sort to make sure there are not stones or other miscellaneous items.
• 
  Step 2
  Add about a gallon of water and every thing else a the same time. Bring to a boil, then simmer for several hours until the beans are tender. I don't always add the carrots or celery, it depends on what she has on hand.
• 
  Step 3
  Do a taste check from time to time to see if you need to add more mustard or molasses. This will thicken as the beans release their starches.
• 
  Step 4
  When the beans have reached the desired tenderness, remove the ham bone and pick the meat off. Add to the pot. If it is not a particularly meaty bone, sometimes I add extra ham.
• Step 5
  Serve with your favorite bread, crackers or https://www.justapinch.com/recipes/bread/savory-bread/southern-cornbread.html?r=3. This freezes well.
• 
  Step 6
  I usually do not add salt and pepper, but you could. Normally the ham is salty enough, and Mama is on a sodium restricted diet.
• Last Step: Don't forget to share! Post a picture of your finished recipe here and on your favorite social network. Don't forget to tag Just A Pinch and include #justapinchrecipes!