1 pound dried pinto beans 1 large onion, chopped 1 tablespoon chili powder 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, optional 1 ham hock (or salt pork) black pepper, to taste 1 can Ro-tel tomatoes (16 oz), with juice salt, to taste

Wash beans and soak overnight. Drain. In a large pot combine beans, onion, chili powder, garlic powder, ham hock, and pepper. Cover with water. Bring to a boil, turn down to low boil and cook uncovered until beans a just tender. Add more water, if necessary. When beans a just tender, add tomatoes and juice and cook until beans are soft. After beans are done, add salt to taste. Note: For less spicy beans use regular can of tomatoes.