lima beans with chorizo

3/4 lbs. dried lima beans or larger (soak overnight in water, then rinse and strain)

1/2 large onion chopped

5-6 cloves garlic chopped

1-2 carrots chopped

3-4 potatoes chopped

2-3 Tía Paquita chorizos

Salt to taste

1 bay leaf (optional)

Smoked ham shank (optional)

Place all ingredients in pot and cover with water one inch above ingredients. Cook until tender at medium heat. Avoid stirring beans. Swirl pot to avoid sticking or burning. Add more water if necessary. Cut chorizo into bite size pieces before serving.