Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried white beans (such as Great Northern), soaked overnight
• 2 1/2 quarts water
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 smoked turkey legs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 medium white onion, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
   • Drain and rinse the soaked white beans.
2. Cook the Soup Base:
   • In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed beans, water, bay leaves, and smoked turkey legs.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
   • Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
3. Remove and Shred Meat:
   • Remove the smoked turkey legs from the pot.
   • Discard the skin and bones.
   • Shred the turkey meat and return it to the pot.
4. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
   • Add minced onion and garlic.
   • Sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine Flavors:
   • Stir the sautéed onion and garlic mixture into the soup.
   • Add oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
   • Simmer for an additional 15 minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations:

• Spicy Twist: Add a few tablespoons of minced jalapeño or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet with the onions and garlic for a bit of heat.
• Extra Vegetables: Dice a carrot and sauté it with the onions and garlic for added color and flavor.
• Greens: Stir in 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach or chard leaves along with the onions and garlic.
• Herb Garnish: Top the soup with coarsely chopped cilantro for a fresh finish.

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in the fridge within 2 hours and consume within 4 days.
• Freezing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer container. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, defrost in the fridge overnight and warm in a saucepan or microwave.

• Navy beans are the traditional choice, but Great Northern beans or larger cannellini beans work well too.