Wash the beans and place them in a large kettle.

Cover the beans with water.

Add salt and soda to the water.

Soak the bean mixture overnight.

Drain the beans the next morning.

Add 2 quarts of water to the drained beans.

Add the ham bone or pork hock.

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.

Add minced onion, tomatoes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Continue simmering until the soup is thick and the beans are tender.

Add the remaining ingredients (carrots, chili powder, garlic).

Simmer until all ingredients are fully cooked.

Add extra water as needed to reach desired consistency.