1. Soak white beans overnight. Discard soaking liquid and rinse.

2. Cover with clean water, bring to boil and skim off foam that forms.

3. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer for 2 hours.

4. At end of cooking time, when beans are soft, bring to rapid boil for at least five minutes. This is what makes the soup creamy.

5. When ready to eat, place a couple slices of Swiss cheese on top of soup in bowls. Add optional cooked chicken to soup.

Denise