Cover beans with water; soak overnight.
Drain beans and place in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Add tomatoes with juice, celery, onion, green pepper, ham hock, garlic, bay leaf, red pepper, thyme, chicken broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, partially covered, 4 to 5 hours or until beans are tender; stir occasionally. Add more water if necessary during simmering.
Remove and discard bay leaf. Remove ham hock and cut meat off bone; return meat to beans.
Pur?e half of soup in blender or food processor; return to pan. Season soup with salt and black pepper. Serve soup with rice, cheese, sour cream and picante sauce.
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