Sweet Potato, Pork, And Black Bean Stew With Prunes

1. 1

   In a large stock pot, fry the bacon until crisp (metal tongs help). Remove bacon, pour off all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat (save that! It's liquid gold! Pour it into a ceramic or glass custard cup with a lid and stick it in the fridge).

2. 2

   Cut the pork loin into cubes. Brown in the bacon fat. Remove pork loin from pot.

3. 3

   Dice onion, and add to the pot with remaining bacon fat.

4. 4

   Peel and cut sweet potato into bite-sized cubes.

5. 5

   Chop cooked bacon and add with sweet potatoes, pork loin, prunes, and undrained beans to the stock pot.

6. 6

   Add water to cover. Then add black pepper (at least an 1/8 teaspoon).

7. 7

   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until sweet potatoes are tender and flavors have combined.

8. 8

   Serve hot with whatever starchy accompaniment you'd like.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.