According to custom, bean soup must be on the menu every day in the Senate dining areas. I came across the famous recipe when deciding what to do with my lovely Rancho Gordo Yellow Eye beans, and couldn’t resist it. How much easier does it get, really? Four basic ingredients that can be set and forgotten about. Because that’s what politicians love, isn’t it? Basic things with no frills or confusion, that don’t cost a lot of money… hmm.
I so highly recommend this soup. The ingredients, or rather - the lack thereof - gave me pause, but I was so pleasantly surprised by the taste - no description or picture does it justice. The beans are super tender and buttery and perfectly exhibited in this simple soup. It’s super. And costs about $5.00. You should make it today.
The Famous Senate Restaurant Bean Soup Recipe
2 pounds dried navy beans
four quarts hot water
1 1/2 pounds smoked ham hocks
1 onion, chopped
2 tablespoons butter
salt and pepper to taste
Wash the navy beans and run hot water through them until they are slightly whitened. Place beans into pot with hot water. Add ham hocks and simmer approximately three hours in a covered pot, stirring occasionally. Remove ham hocks and set aside to cool. Dice meat and return to soup. Lightly brown the onion in butter. Add to soup. Before serving, bring to a boil and season with salt and pepper. Serves 8.
