These chuck wagon-style beans are simple enough to complement everything from barbecue to Mexican food, but they are equally delicious served on their own in a big bowl alongside a hunk of corn bread.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried pinto beans
- 1/4 pound salt pork OR bacon
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
Directions
- Place beans in a colander, rinse well, and remove any stones.
- Pour beans into slow cooker and cover with water (about 6 cups). Add salt pork or bacon and garlic. Cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or until tender. Periodically check that the beans remain covered with water, and add additional hot water, if necessary, or if you would like extra bean broth.
- When beans are almost done, taste broth and season with salt and pepper. Stir in chili powder. Allow flavors to blend for an hour or so before serving.
Tips, Tricks, & Variations
As tempting as it may be, don't salt your beans until they're almost done cooking. Adding salt too soon can make them tough.
(Source: fivehearthome.com & photos also)
