Ingredients

  • 1 lb. dried Northern beans
  • 1 (2 1/2 lb.) chicken
  • 5 c. chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 c. chopped celery
  • 2 Tbsp. ground cumin
  • 1 Tbsp. thyme
  • 1 Tbsp. seasoned salt
  • 1 Tbsp. white pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 1/2 c. skim milk
  • enough flour to thicken or cornstarch
  • shredded cheese for topping (optional)

Method

  • Wash beans; place in kettle, cover and soak for 24 hours. Drain.
  • Cut chicken into pieces.
  • Cover with 5 cups water and cook for 30 minutes.
  • Remove chicken and reserve broth.
  • Add enough additional broth to make 10 cups total.
  • Strain broth and add beans, onions, celery, cumin, thyme, salt, pepper and bay leaves. Bring to boil.
  • Add 2 to 3 cups of the cooked chicken, cut into small pieces and reduce heat.
  • Simmer 1 to 2 hours until beans are tender.
  • Add milk to flour and add to kettle.
  • Cook another 30 minutes.
  • Makes 1 gallon.