Step 1

Place beans in a large bowl and add water to cover. Let soak (on the counter) overnight.

Step 2

Drain beans and add to 6-quart crock pot.

Step 3

Add 5 cups water, onion, ham hocks, red pepper flakes, thyme, and bay leaf.

Step 4

Cover and cook on LOW 5 hours.

Step 5

Remove ham hocks from crock pot. Season beans to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Remove meat from ham hocks, shred and return to crock pot. If beans aren't tender, cover crock pot and continue to cook 30 mins or until beans are soft.