Wash the beans and pick them over. Cover with water and let soak overnight. Drain the soaked beans. Put the beans in a large pot. Add 2 qts. of water and bring to a boil. Turn the heat down and simmer 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Add all the other ingredients and simmer another 45 mins. If you want, you can also add 1 C of diced potatoes. notes: I used 1/4 lb smoked turkey instead of the hamhock. Also, I used 1 9 oz can of chopped tomatoes.