1 lb. dried pinto beans
1 med. onion, quartered
2 tsp. salt
1/2 lb. ham hocks or salt pork, cut into cubes
5 c. water
1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
1 tsp. chili powder

1. Soak pinto beans overnight in water to cover; drain.

2. Combine beans, water, onion, garlic, chili powder, salt and ham hocks or salt pork in large pot. Bring to boiling; lower heat; simmer over low heat 2 1/2 hours, or until beans are very soft. Remove ham hocks before serving.