Buckaroo Beans

1 lb. dried pinto beans
1/2 lb. smoked ham
1 lg. onion, coarsely chopped
1 sm. bay leaf
1/2 c. chopped green pepper
2 tsp. chili powder
2 tbsp. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1/2 tsp. oregano
2 c. canned tomatoes
Salt & garlic to taste

Place washed beans in 3 quart pan and soak overnight. Add ham, garlic, onion and bay leaf. Bring to boil; reduce heat and simmer 1 to 1 1/2 hours. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer, covered for 2 hours or until beans are done.

Andrea Wyrick, Reference Librarian, La Porte Community Library