1 pound dried pinto beans
3 quarts water
1/2 pound bacon, cut into pieces
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons dried red chile powder

Wash the beans thoroughly, removing any stones or bad beans. Soak overnight in cold water, changing the water at least once.

Cook the bacon for a few minutes, then add onion and cook until transparent. Put the beans into a large pot with the bacon and onion, cover with water and simmer, covered, for four hours or until beans start to soften. Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chile powder, and cook for 30 minutes. Serve hot.

Serves 6 to 8.