New Orleans Red Kidney Beans

Rinse and sort beans.

Cover and soak overnight, or soak in hot water.

Combine beans with ham.

Saute in flat skillet the onion, bell pepper, celery and parsley.

Add these with meat, bay leaf, salt and pepper to taste into the beans.

Boil gently, stirring occasionally, for about 1 1/2 hours, or until tender.

Add water while cooking, if necessary.

Or put everything in a slow cooker on slow or high temperature.

Allow beans to rest for 1 hour in hot water.

They will be ready to use.