1 lb. pinto beans
6 c. water
1/4 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. butter
2 slices bacon, cut in 1" pieces
2 tbsp. diced onion
1 med. size garlic clove, chopped
2 tbsp. molasses
1/2 c. catsup
3 drops Tabasco
1/2 tsp. Worcestershire
3/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 c. cider vinegar
1/8 tsp. dry mustard
1/8 tsp. black pepper
2 tbsp. cold water
1 1/2 tbsp. cornstarch

Place washed beans in large kettle. Add water. Bring to a boil and boil 2 minutes only. Remove from heat, add baking soda. Cover, let stand 1 hour.

To cook, put kettle of beans with soaking water on high heat. Add salt and butter to keep down the foam. When boiling, reduce heat to simmer. Cover tightly and cook 2 hours or until tender.

Combine remaining ingredients, blending cornstarch with cold water before adding. Add thickener to the cooked beans, stirring carefully with a wooden spoon to avoid breaking beans. Simmer covered 30 minutes. Serve hot. Makes 10 servings.