Whenever this dish is in front of me, all my willpower goes out the window

I have the perfect recipe for you today - Slow Cooker Navy Bean & Ham Soup. Not only is this soup incredibly delicious, but it's also a hearty and comforting dish that will warm your soul on those chilly evenings. There's something special about the combination of tender navy beans, flavorful ham, and aromatic herbs and spices that creates a truly sensational flavor profile.

Picture this: a cold winter's day, snowflakes gently falling from the sky. I found myself craving a comforting and satisfying meal that would wrap me in its warmth. That's when I stumbled upon this Slow Cooker Navy Bean & Ham Soup recipe. With very little effort, I simply tossed the ingredients into my trusty slow cooker, set it on low, and went about my day. As the hours passed, the enticing aroma wafted through my kitchen, building anticipation with every passing minute. Finally, when it was time to serve, I ladled the steaming soup into bowls, garnished it with fresh herbs, and took my first spoonful. Oh, what a delight! The creamy beans, the tender chunks of ham, and the harmonious blend of spices instantly transported me to a place of pure comfort. It was a moment to savor, and this recipe became an instant favorite in my household.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound navy beans, rinsed and picked over
- 1 meaty ham bone, or 2 cups diced cooked ham
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups water (or chicken broth)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the rinsed navy beans, ham bone (or diced ham), onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in a slow cooker.

2. Pour in the water (or chicken broth) and add the bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.

4. Once the soup is done cooking, remove the ham bone, if using, and shred any meat from it. Discard the bone and return the shredded ham to the slow cooker. If using diced ham, simply stir it into the soup.

5. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt and pepper if desired.

6. Serve the Slow Cooker Navy Bean & Ham Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs, alongside some crusty bread or warm cornbread.

There you have it - a recipe that is both easy to make and truly sensational. Let the slow cooker work its magic, and you'll be rewarded with a comforting bowl of navy bean and ham soup that will leave you craving for more. So, go ahead and save this recipe, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness that awaits you.