Barn-Raising Beans

• 1 lb. dried red beans
• 6 slices bacon, cut into 1/2" pieces
• 1 c. chopped onion
• 1/4 c copped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 c. butter or margarine
• 2 med. carrots, coarsely chopped
• 1 tbsp. chili powder
• 1 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. cumin 1/2 tsp. thyme leaves
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 whole cloves
• 2 tsp. minced fresh garlic
• 4 c. water

1. In large bowl place beans; cover with water. Soak for 1 hr. Meanwhile, in 3- qt saucepan cook bacon over med. high heat, stirring occasionally, until bacon is browned (6 to 8 min.). Reduce heat to med. Add remaining ingredients except 4 c. water and beans. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are crisply tender (2 to 3 min.) Drain beans; add to vegetable mixture. Add 4 c. water. Cook over high heat until mixture comes to a full boil. Reduce heat to med. Cover; cook, stirring occasionally until beans are fork tender (1 1/2. to 2 hr.). Remove bay leaves and cloves
2. *1 lb. dried kidney beans can be substitutted for 1 lb. dried red beans. Cook for 60 to 70 minutes.

red beans, bacon, onion, fresh cilantro, butter, carrots, chili powder, salt, cumin, bay leaves, cloves, fresh garlic, water

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/member/views/barn-raising-beans-50022221 (may not work)