3/4 lb. black beans
1 1/2 qt. water
1 lg. onion, sliced
3 green bell peppers, sliced
4-5 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp. cayenne pepper
1/4 tsp dried cumin seed
1/2 c. olive oil
1 tsp. salt
3 slices bacon
1/4 lb. ham bone
3 bay leaves
1/2 c. cider vinegar (optional)
pinch of oregano

Soak beans in water overnight. Drain water and reserve. Saute onion, peppers and garlic in olive oil, stirring frequently. Do not allow to brown.

Combine ingredients, including water, for soaking beans, except vinegar. Simmer over low heat until beans are tender and liquid becomes thick.

Remove 1/4 cup beans when tender and mash with the back of spoon. Return to pot. Add vinegar several minutes before serving.

Submitted by: CM