In a large stock pot on medium heat, add oil and chopped onions
1 large onion
Saute onions until translucent or tender
Add broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Add ham hock; available in the meat/ham section of your grocer. I recommend using a smoked ham hock for optimal flavor.
1 large smoked ham hock
Add beans
1 pkg dried beans
Allow beans to come to a boil
Once beans have come to a boil, reduce heat to simmer and cover
Continue to cook, checking liquid level frequently, until all beans are tender
64 oz. chicken broth
Notes
You can purchase a 15-bean soup mix pre-packaged, or buy the 15 bean mix in the bulk section of some grocers. If you purchase the pre-packaged bean mix, discard the seasoning packet.
The seasoning packet consists of 'ham' flavoring and MSG; the ham hock serves as a healthier substitute for the packet of dry seasonings.