Lima Bean and Ham Stew

3 ham hocks

1 pound lima beans

3 cups chicken broth

3 cups water

2 garlic cloves

2 bermuda onions

1 cup celery -- diced

1 cup carrots -- sliced

1 bay leaves

hot pepper sauce -- optional

1. Prepare lima beans by picking over to remove any debris that

might be i n package. Rinse beans well. Cover with about 8 cups water. Bring to a boil, co ver and boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat, keep covered and allow to stand for 1 hour or more. 2. While beans are soaking, prepare the ham hocks (or use meaty

ham bones) . Combine the 3 cups broth and 3 cups water in a large heavy pan with lid; brin g to a boil. Add the ham and simmer for about 1 hour. 3. Drain the beans, running hot water over beans briefly to

rinse. Add the beans to the ham mixture. Slice the onions and separate into rings. Add the on ions, along with the carrots, celery, and bay leaf, to the pot. Mince the garli c cloves or use a garlic press; add to mixture. Add fresh ground black pepper a nd salt if you prefer. Ham is salted already so you may not want to add salt at this point. Pour additional broth or hot water over this mixture to reach abou t 1 inch above the ingredients. 4. Simmer for about 1 hour, stirring several times, checking to

see if you need to add more liquid. After beans and vegetables are tender, remove the ham hocks or bone. Remove the meat from bones and add back to the bean mixture. Ta ste and add more salt or pepper if you wish; also add hot pepper sauce to your taste.