In the last cold days of winter, my family was looking for a hearty thick soup for dinner. Threw this together with what was in the pantry and it turned out really well! Thought I’d share.

Ingredients: 3 tbsp olive oil white onion 3 large garlic cloves 1 cup diced carrots can petite diced tomatoes 8-12 cups chicken broth 2 meaty ham bones 1 cup dried navy or cannellini beans 1 cup lentils/split peas fresh baby spinach salt to taste

Instructions: Heat olive oil in dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sauté onion, garlic and carrots until soft. Add tomatoes (undrained), 8 cups chicken broth, ham bones, beans and lentils to the pot. Bring to a simmer, turn heat to low and cover with a tight lid. Simmer for 2-3 hours until meat falls from bones and beans are softened. Add up to 4 additional cups of broth to desired thickness. Stir in spinach and season according to taste immediately before serving.

Top with fresh grated parmesan, a splash of red wine vinegar or sherry… Get creative and enjoy!

(Could easily be made in the slow cooker on low for 3-4 hours.)