posted by Liz 03-16-103 3:30 PM
Santa Maria Style Beans
1 pound pinquito beans
1 strip bacon, diced
1/2 cup ham, diced
1 clove garlic
3/4 cup tomato puree
1/4 cup red chile sauce*
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 pinch MSG or Accent (optional)
*Las Palmas brand, not to be confused with chili sauce, which is like hot catsup.
Pick through beans to remove any small stones. Place in pot, cover with water, and let soak overnight. Drain beans, cover with fresh water, and simmer for 2 hours, or until tender.
Saute bacon and ham until lightly browned. Add garlic, saute 1 to 2 minutes longer. Add tomato puree, chile sauce, sugar, mustard, salt, and MSG (if using it).
Drain most liquid from beans and save. Stir in the sauce and simmer for 1/2 hour. Add some of the saved liquid if they get too dry. Makes 6 to 8 servings.