1 lb. dried pinto or kidney beans
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Salt & black pepper
Smoked ham shanks (optional)

Sort and wash dried beans. To prepare dried beans, either 1) Set to soak in cold water overnight and then drain before final boiling or 2) Cover beans with cold water, bring to boil and let set 1 hour and drain. Put pre-soaked or pre-cooked beans in a large pot. Cover with cold water. Put to boil. Add chopped garlic, smoked meat and stir. Let beans simmer slowly until done. Add salt to taste when nearly done.