Ahoy there mates! Food on the ship has greatly improved since the time of Blackbeard the pirate. In fact, it's gotten downright delicious. Our own Captain John got busy, and created a seaworthy masterpiece. You've never tasted navy bean soup this good. Serve it to your guests and they'll swear you put real ham in there. A touch of tomato and oregano make this soup complete. When serving this, you won't have to call "All hands on deck" more than once!

STOVE-TOP DIRECTIONS

Pour entire contents into saucepan. Add 4 cups water and stir well to blend seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Cover, remove from heat, and let stand an additional 5 minutes. Stir gently and serve.

SLOW-COOKER DIRECTIONS

Pour entire contents into a 1 1/2 - 2 qt. Slow Cooker. Add 4 cups water and stir. Cook slowly for 4 hours to blend flavors. Stir gently and serve. Try our preferred Rival 2 Qt. Slow Cooker.

Yield:  1 Packet makes 5 Cups