Butter Bean Soup

In a large soup pot, heat oil over medium high heat until hot. Add onions, carrots, celery, salt and pepper and saute until tender. Add chicken stock and bring to a boil. While stock is boiling add frozen butter beans and bring down to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, covered. While butter beans are cooking put smoked ham in a sauté pan until just brown on edges and set aside. After butter beans are cooked thoroughly, puree in blender or immersion blender. Once pureed add warmed milk and blend well. Add smoked ham and serve.