15 Bean Soup/Stew

• (20 ounce) package 15 beans, Hurst's HamBeans preferred1
• ham hocks↗2 -3
• ounces salt pork, cut into 2 inch cubes↗8
• ounces lean bacon, pieces↗8
• (16 ounce) package andouille smoked sausage↗1
• tablespoon cumin↗1
• tablespoon thyme↗1
• tablespoon gumbo file1
• tablespoon chili powder↗1
• tablespoon lemon pepper1
• teaspoons fresh cracked pepper↗2
• medium onions↗2
• elephant garlic cloves or 4 -6 regular garlic cloves↗2
• bell pepper↗1⁄2
• (10 ounce) can rotel1

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Soak beans at least overnight.

2. 2

   Put all ingredients together in a large pot and cook at medium heat ( a good simmer) for approximately 2 1/2 hours until the beans are tender.

3. 3

   Add salt to taste after cooking for 1 hour.