Pinto Beans

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 1 large ham hock
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 medium onion, diced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

1. Examine the beans, removing any debris, then wash thoroughly.
2. Soak overnight in water to cover.
3. Boil the ham hock for 1 1/2 hours or until tender.
4. Drain the beans.
5. Put the beans, ham hock, and the remaining ingredients in a large saucepan.
6. Bring to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat and simmer about 1 hour.
8. Remove bay leaves.
9. Remove 1 1/2 cups of cooked beans to a large bowl.
10. Mash them with a potato masher until creamy and return to the saucepan.
11. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
12. Serve alone, or with a cup of rice or a square of corn bread.

pinto beans, ham hock, garlic, onion, bay leaves, salt, freshly ground pepper

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/pinto-beans-378726 (may not work)