SOPA DE FRIJOLES NEGROS -- BLACK BEAN SOUP

Steps:

• 1. Pick through black beans, place in pot, cover with tap water and let soak overnight. 2. Heat bacon fat in 6-8 quart stock pot. Add onion, carrot, celery, red pepper and garlic. Sauteed until vegetables are tender. 3. Add chicken stock, ham hocks, drained beans and all spices. Bring to the boil, then simmer, partially covered for about 2 1/2 until beans are exceedingly tender. 4. Remove from heat, and remove ham bones and bay leaf. Combine vinegar and sugar and add to soup. 5. Using a slotted spoon, remove about 1 1/2 cup beans and reserve. Using an immersion blender, purée soup until reasonably smooth. Add back reserved beans. 6. Reheat soup, ladle into bowls, and garnish with a dolop of sour cream, chopped red onion, diced tomato, diced avocado and torn cilantro leaves. Sprinkle a squeeze of fresh lime juice atop all.