Creamy Louisiana Red Beans

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried red kidney beans
• 4 Tbsp fat or drippings
• 1 large onion minced
• 5 or 6 c water
• 1 clove garlic minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 sprigs thyme
• red pepper seeds from pod or few drops hot pepper sauce
• salt to taste
• 1 ham hock

Directions

1. Wash and pick over red beans then soak overnight or 6 to 8 hours in enough water to cover
2. Then drain beans and place in a large pot or pressure cooker
3. Melt fat or drippings in skillet Add minced onion and saut until golden brown
4. Add to red beans along with 5 cups water seasonings and ham hock
5. We always add the salt after beans have cooked for a while tasting to see how much the ham bone has salted it before putting in any additional salt
6. Cover and cook slowly for 3 12 to 4 hours or until tender and creamy