Red Beans and Rice Recipe

• 4 cups red beans, dry
• 4 quarts water, divided
• 1 pound ham
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

1. Let the beans sit in a pot of water overnight to soften.
2. Heat a pot with clean, 2 quarts of water and bring to a boil.
3. Place beans, ham, carrot, onion, and bay leaf to pot.
4. Simmer for 2 hours.
5. If desired, mash the beans once they are soft enough.
6. Add salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve with cooked rice.

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