1 lb. light red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
8 c. water
1 smoked ham hock
1 med. onion, chopped
1 clove garlic
Salt and pepper
1/2 tsp. leaf oregano, crumbled
1 tbsp. chili powder
1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes
1/3 c. tomato paste

Place beans in kettle with warm ham hock, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Oregano and half the chili powder. Bring to boiling; lower heat; simmer 1 1/2 hours. Add remaining chili powder, pepper flakes and tomato paste. Simmer 30 minutes.