1 lb Dried pinto beans
2    Ham hocks
1 sm Onion; chopped
2 tb Salt
1 ts Freshly ground black pepper
1 ts Sugar
1    Clove garlic; crushed

1. Soak the beans overnight in the refrigerator in enough cold water to
cover by 4 inches. Drain them well.

2. Combine the beans, ham hocks, onion, salt, pepper, sugar, and garlic in
a large saucepot. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat
to simmering and cook, covered, until the bean are tender, about 45
minutes. Check the seasoning and serve the beans hot.
NOTES : If you like, remove the meat from the ham hocks, pick it free of
fat and gristle, and return it to the beans.