1 lb Smoked ham hocks; chopped
-or salted pigs tail
1 lb Stewing beef; cubed
2 c  Kidney beans, dried
4 qt Water
4 sm Potatoes; peeled and cubed
1/2 c  Coconut milk; optional
1    Onions; chopped
2    Green onions; chopped
1    Sprig fresh thyme
1    Hot pepper
Salt

Soak the pigs tail overnight in fresh water to cover. Then thoroughly
rinse the pigs tail (or ham hocks) in cold water. Combine in a large heavy
sauce- pan with the beef, dried kidney beans (if using canned beans dont
add at this time), and the water. Cover and cook over medium heat for about
1 hour, until the meat and beans are tender. Add the potatoes, coconut
milk, and any other peeled root vegetables or dumplings along with the
onion, scallions, thyme and hot pepper. (If using canned beans, add at this
time.) Add salt to taste. Stir the soup and allow to simmer for 1 hour.
Remove the whole hot pepper and thyme sprig before serving. Serve hot. This
is even better served the second day.