Western Pinto Beans

Western Pinto Beans are a staple throughout the Southwest. The beans also make wonderful refried beans.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pinto beans
• Water
• 1 small onion, halved
• 1 bay leaf
• 3/4 pound slab bacon
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne

Instructions

1. Pick over the beans for small rocks or debris. Rinse well, then cover with cold water and soak for 6 hours or overnight.
2. Transfer beans to a slow cooker and add water to cover by 1 inch.
3. Add onion, bay leaf and bacon.
4. Cook on HIGH for 7 hours, then stir in salt, paprika and cayenne.
5. Cook for 1 more hour.
6. Remove bacon and chop roughly, then return to slow cooker.

Attribution

Photo credit: HomeMaker from Pixabay