Tom Mix Cowboy Beans
Makes 6 to 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 - pound dried pinto beans, sorted, rinsed and drained
• 8 - cup water
• 1 to 1-1/2 - pounds. ham shank
• 2 - medium onions, chopped
• 2 - garlic cloves, minced
• 1 - teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 - teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 - teaspoon dried cilantro
• 1/2 - teaspoon pepper
• 1 - teaspoon salt

• 2 - teaspoon limes

Directions:

1. In a large kettle, add the beans and pour in water. You want the water to cover with enough water about 2 inches above beans. 
2. Cover and let stand overnight. On the other hand, bring beans to a boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and cover for 1 hour or until tender.
3. Drain the beans and add the 8 c. of water. Then add ham, onions, and garlic. 
4. Bring the water to a boil and cook the bean for 10 minutes. Then reduce the kettle’s heat to low and simmer for 2 hours. 
5. Then remove the ham. Allow the ham to cool, then cut into 1/2-inch pieces. Return ham to the kettle. You add the cumin, oregano, cilantro, and pepper next.
6. Continue to simmer for an additional 1 hour. The beans should be very tender and with little liquid. (If the beans to become too dry, add a little water. If the beans are too soupy, continue to cook.) 
7. Now is the time to add the salt. Cut limes into wedges and squeeze into beans.