Pinto Beans with Ham

FOR QUICK-FIX KABOBS: skewer seasoned cubes of tender steak with parboiled shallots, new potatoes and bell pepper squares. Grill to order and brush with prepared teriyaki glaze after cooking.

YIELD: 50 servings

3 lbs., 13 oz. dry pinto beans
2 gals, 1 qt. + 2 cups water
15 oz. ham,1/2-in. chopped
1 3/4 tsp. salt
1 3/4 tsp. black pepper, ground
14 oz. yellow onion, chopped

1. Pick over beans, place in kettle and wash thoroughly. Cover beans with water and bring to a boil. Boil for 2 minutes; turn off heat and allow beans to sit for 1 hour.
2. Add meat and seasonings to beans. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 1 to 2 hours or until tender (not mushy). Add more water if beans become too dry. Stir beans occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Recipe from Cynthia Zawieja, associate director, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX.