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1
Fry ham in a little bit of oil for a minute or two, then add onion and pepper and saute for an addition minute or two.
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2
The onion and pepper should not get soft.
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3
In a large bowl, mix all of the ingredients together.
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4
Pour the whole mess into your crock.
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5
This can be cooked two ways.
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6
If you have a bean pot (a terra-cotta crock for the oven), add enough water to bring the liquids to the level of the beans (not to cover them).
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7
Cook in the oven at 300 degrees for 2 hours or so, until the sauce is thick.
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8
In a crock pot, add less water and cook on low for 6-8 hours, then uncover and turn on high for an hour to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
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9
Again, you're striving for a thick sauce.
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10
Served with corn and fresh bread, this makes an awesome meal.
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11
POSSIBLE CHANGES: (among others) Use a pound of dried beans- soaked, drained and cooked until soft.
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12
Use bacon or salt pork to replace the ham, although you'll want to rinse some of the salt out of these before you cook them.
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13
Use smashed fresh garlic to replace the garlic powder.
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14
Use salsa instead of the diced tomatoes.
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15
Add corn to the mixture.
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16
Serve over baked potatoes.
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17
I've tried all of these suggestions at one time or another, and all are excellent.
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18
Enjoy!
