Pot of Beans

4-6 bacon strips

1 large onion, chopped

1/3 cup dry lentils

1-1/3 cups water

2 tablespoons ketchup

1 teaspoon garlic powder

3/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon dried red pepper flakes

1 bay leaf

1 can (16 oz) diced tomatoes with liquid (or can of whole tomatoes, chopped)

1 can (15 oz) pinto beans, drained

1 can (16-oz) kidney beans, drained

1 can (15-1/4 oz) canned corn, drained

In a 3-qt saucepan, fry bacon, lightly. Add onion and cook until transparent. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cook over medium heat for about 45-60 min (until lentil beans are tender. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

I like to top this with shredded cheddar cheese. It's great serve with corn bread on the side.

I have substituted the bacon with ground beef or sausage which is also yummy! This recipe is great to play around with. I like to add more 'heat' to it (red pepper flakes and chili powder). And the recipe is also great without the corn if you don't have any on hand.

If anyone tries this, please let me know if you liked it. Enjoy!