Simple Pinto Beans With Bacon

1. 1

   Pick over the beans for small rocks or debris.

2. 2

   Rinse well, then cover with cold water and soak for 6 hours or overnight.

3. 3

   Transfer beans to a soup pot and add water to cover by 1 inch.

4. 4

   Add onion, bay leaf and bacon and bring to a boil.

5. 5

   Reduce heat to a bare simmer, partly cover pot with lid, and cook for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

6. 6

   Stir in salt, paprika and cayenne, then continue simmering until beans are soft and creamy and the broth is well seasoned and lightly thickened, about 1 hour more.

7. 7

   Remove bacon and chop roughly, then return to pot.

8. 8

   (Dish may be prepared up to 2 days ahead.)

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.