Ham and Kidney Bean Soup (crock pot method)

Contributed by Tina Otazua

8 to 10 cups water

2 ham hocks

16 oz kidney beans

fresh garlic or minced garlic to taste (approx. 2 cloves)

1 whole onion, diced

1 14-15 oz. can diced tomatoes

2-3 tsp. seasoning salt

1 tsp. Southwest Seasoning

Put beans and ham along with the garlic and spices in the crock pot. Add enough water to almost fill the crock pot. Cook on high for 4 to 5 hours. Remove ham and debone, then return ham to crock pot. Add onion and canned tomatoes. Cook and additional hour or until onion and beans are done to your liking.

For a fun, tasty twist, use 1 to 2 packets of chili seasoning.