Creamy Butter Beans with Smoked Meat

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried butter beans (or 2 cans, drained)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 cup smoked meat (ham hock, smoked turkey, or sausage – chopped/shredded)

• 4–5 cups water or chicken broth

• Optional: 1 tsp thyme or a few sprigs of fresh herbs

• Optional: A splash of cream for extra richness