Yield: 8 Servings
| Measure | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 pounds | Dried pinto beans |
| 2 | Ham hocks |
| 1 small | Onion; chopped |
| 2 tablespoons | Salt |
| 1 teaspoon | Freshly ground black pepper |
| 1 teaspoon | Sugar |
| 1 | Clove garlic; crushed |
1. Soak the beans overnight in the refrigerator in enough cold water to cover by 4 inches. Drain them well.
2. Combine the beans, ham hocks, onion, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic in a large saucepot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmering and cook, covered, until the bean are tender, about 45 minutes. Check the seasoning and serve the beans hot.
NOTES : If you like, remove the meat from the ham hocks, pick it free of fat and gristle, and return it to the beans.