HAM AND BEANS

HAM AND BEANS 1 pound dry great Northern beans 1/2 pound cooked ham, diced 1 small onion, diced 1/2 cup brown sugar salt and pepper to taste 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon dried parsley Rinse beans in a large pot; discard shriveled beans and any small stones. Add 8 cups of cold water. Let stand overnight or at least 8 hours. Drain and rinse beans. Return beans to pot and add ham, onion, brown sugar, salt, pepper, cayenne and parsley and water to cover. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until beans are tender. Add more water if necessary during cooking time.