Dried Calico Bean Mix

I keep a giant pickle glass pickle jar of this in my pantry at all times, winter and summer. You'll want some big bowls and some crusty bread for this one. This bean mix works well any time you want some extra "filler" in your soup, stews, and chili. If you don't have a giant pickle jar like I do, then make up 2-cup increment zip-top bags, label, and store in the pantry for immediate use. 

Calico Bean Soup

Note: while you can boil then soak your beans overnight, a faster method is to use your Instant Pot. To the two cups of beans add 4 cups of water. Add salt, if desired. Lock down the lid, set to Pressure Cook, 25 minutes. Walk away. Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for at least 30 minutes after it's done, then release any excess pressure. Drain the beans, keeping them in the pot. 

Add: 

8 cups water

1-1/2 lb ham hocks or ham bone

1 onion, chopped (about a 1/2 cup or more if you like onions)

1 garlic clove minced or 1/2 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp chili powder

1 28-oz can undrained tomatoes, cut up. 

2 Tbsp lemon juice

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

Place all ingredients in with the beans. Add the lid, but don't lock it down. Or, use a glass lid that fits the Instant Pot well. Set to slow cook and walk away for 8 hours or more. Taste to adjust the seasoning, if desired. 

You can dump all ingredients into a big stock pot and simmer about 45 minutes. Taste often and adjust seasoning as needed.