Zesty Ham and Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 5 small shallots, chopped small
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 lb ham, chopped small

• 1 (15 ounce) can whole kernel corn, undrained

• 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, undrained

• 1 (15 ounce) can great northern beans, undrained

• 1 (15 ounce) can chicken broth
• 2 large carrots, chopped small
• 2 teaspoons cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 dashes cayenne pepper
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 cup cheese, grated (optional)

Directions

1. 1

   Heat oil in a large soup pot or dutch oven over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add shallots and garlic and cook until beginning to brown, then stir ham into the pot.

3. 3

   Add all canned ingredients, then the carrots and all the spices.

4. 4

   Reduce heat to low and cover pot for one hour.

5. 5

   Add chopped tomatoes and continue to heat on low for 15 - 20 minutes.

6. 6

   Serve in bowls and top with shredded cheese if you like.