Instructions: Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 Minutes

1.In a large saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Add ham; cook, stirring frequently, until browned, about 3 minutes.

2.Add onion and bell pepper to pan; cook, stirring, until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and black pepper; cook, stirring, for 1 minutes.

3.Add broth, bay leaves, and oregano to pan; bring ham mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in beans and simmer until mixture thickens slightly, about 15 minutes. Stir in parsley and sherry. Remove bay leaves.

Ladle soup into individual bowls. Serve immediately.

Variation: substitute one can of white beans for one can of black beans.

Remember: use a slotted spoon to remove and discard the bay leaves from the soup. Bay leaves are used exclusively for flavor - they should not be eaten.

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