Cowboy Beans

"Yum, a cowboy beans recipe!" may not be your first thought.

That comes later. Rest assured, this is NOT a "ridin' the dusty trail hard" kind of recipe, but the "I can't believe they actually call it Cowboy Beans" kind.

A welcome side dish recipe, BBQ and picnic food idea, or meal in itself. Truly, one of the best things to happen to pinto beans.

Cowboy Beans

Hearty and delicious pinto beans recipe.

1 pound pinto beans
1 or 2 ham shanks* or ham hocks
1 large onion, chopped
2 whole fresh green chilies, seeded and finely chopped
1 teaspoon each cumin, oregano, and chili powder
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt

*Note: Ham shanks are much meatier than ham hocks. If you don't see them out, ask your butcher.

Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot with water to cover plus 3 inches. Let them soak for several hours or overnight.

Add the remaining ingredients in a 12" deep, Dutch oven. Place oven over 15 charcoals. Bring the water to a boil, reduce heat, cover and simmer for about 2 hours.

Remove the lid and simmer for 1 additional hour to reduce the liquid.

Remove the ham shank, cut the meat from the bone and return the meat to the Dutch oven. Stir. Serve hot or at room temperature.