Step 1: Begin by sorting your dried navy or Great Northern beans, removing any small stones or debris. Rinse them thoroughly under cold water. For best results, soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water. Alternatively, you can use a quick-soak method: place rinsed beans in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil for 10 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse the soaked beans before proceeding.
Step 2: Dice your onion and mince your garlic. In a skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Place the soaked and drained beans into your large slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic.
Step 4: If using a ham hock or ham bone, add it to the slow cooker now. If using diced cooked ham, you can add it at this stage or closer to the end of cooking (around the last hour) to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Step 5: Pour in 6-8 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the beans are fully submerged. Add the bay leaves, black pepper, and dried thyme. Remember to hold off on adding extra salt until the end of cooking, as the ham will release a significant amount of salt.
Step 6: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beans are tender and creamy. Cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker and the age of your beans, so check for tenderness towards the end.
Step 7: Once the beans are tender, carefully remove the ham bone/hock (if used). Shred any meat from the bone and discard the bone. Return the shredded ham to the slow cooker. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding salt if necessary. If you used diced ham, stir it in now if you didn't add it earlier.
Step 8: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash a small portion of the beans against the side of the crockpot with a spoon or potato masher.
Step 9: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.