Rinse and sort dried beans
Soak beans overnight or use a quick-soak method
Drain beans and set aside
Dice ham or ham bone meat
Chop onion, carrots, and celery
Mince garlic
Heat oil or butter in a large pot
Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened
Add garlic and cook briefly
Add ham, beans, broth or water, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper
Bring to a boil
Reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender
Stir occasionally and add more liquid if needed
Remove ham bone or bay leaf if used
Adjust seasoning
Serve hot