Texas Pinto Beans

Ingredients

• 450 g of dried pinto beans
• 1920 ml of water
• 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon of salt
• 1 ham bone or an equivalent amount of cured bacon
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1200 ml of water
• A very small amount (approximately 90g) of freshly brewed coffee made that day (optional)

Wash the beans thoroughly and soak them overnight in 8 cups of water.

Empty and refill with 5 cups of water.

Add all the other ingredients.

Bring to a boil and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.

Remove the bay leaves.

Do not drain before serving; the liquid is an essential part of the dish.

It can be served with a slotted spoon, to allow for drainage, or in small ramekins.