Central Texan Pinto Beans

Ingredients

• 1 lb pinto beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 ham bone
• 1–2 bay leaves

Steps

1. Wash the beans carefully.
2. Soak the beans overnight in 8 cups of water.
3. Drain and refill with 5 cups of water.
4. Add all the other ingredients.
5. Bring to a boil and simmer at least 1 hour, or until tender.
6. Remove the bay leaves.
7. Do not drain prior to serving, the liquid is an important aspect of the dish.
8. Can be served using a slotted spoon, to allow draining, or with a ladle into small side-dish bowls.