A hearty, savory, rich soup that is perfect after a long day!
Place the beans in a bowl and cover with water by about 2 inches (the beans will expand). Cover and place int he fridge overnight or at least 8 hours.
Pour the soaked beans in a colander and rinse well with cold water.
Place the beans in a slow cooker along with the ham bone, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaves, thyme and stock. Cover and cook for 6-8 hours. During the last hour of cooking add the sausage and season with salt and pepper.
If there is any ham meat on the bone you can chop that up and add to the soup.
Serve hot with crackers and hot pepper sauce.