I grew up on ham and beans but most folks from the East, West and North are unfamiliar with the dish. Being 50 miles from Kentucky, I consider my cooking style more Southern than anything else.

First, you wash the dried beans (either Great Northern
or Navy). Cover with water several inches over the top of the beans and soak overnight.*

Next day, pour off the water, put in a large pan, cover
with fresh water. Add some chunks of ham for seasoning and a little pepper. Salt is not necessary when using ham for seasoning. Simmer for several hours - until beans are tender.

We traditionally serve this with cornbread. It is also tradition in our family to serve this dish on New Years Day for good luck in the coming year.

* Rather than soaking overnite you can put the beans in a large pan, cover with water, bring to a boil and boil a minute or so. Remove pan from heat and let sit on hour. Proceed with cooking. Be sure to pour off the water and cover with fresh water before cooking.