Step 1

Soak beans overnight. Drain and rinse.

Step 2

Add beans, spices, ham bone and water to your slow cooker. (I used a 6 quart insert)

Step 3

Cook on low for about 7-8 hours.

Step 4

Remove ham bone and bay leaf. Stir in onion and chopped ham. Continue to cook for another 30 minutes to an hour. (This give you time to make your cornbread!)

Step 5

For a thicker soup, remove a cup or so of the cooked beans. Mash them then stir them back into the pot.