Frijoles Negros a la Oaxaca (Black Beans)

2 lb Black beans; * see note
12 c Water
2 Garlic cloves; chopped
1 Onion; chopped
1 1/2 ts Cumin seed
1 ts Salt
1/4 ts Black pepper
1 1/2 lb Ham hocks; ** see note

This dish takes about 10 hours to prepare, so plan ahead.

* Dried pinto beans can be used, but the recipe will lose its authenticity. ** Use about 1-2 pounds of meaty ham hocks.

Pick over beans, wash thoroughly and drain. Place in very large casserole. Cover with the water; add garlic, cumin, onion, salt, pepper and ham hocks. Cover tightly and bake at 275 degrees for about 10 hours, or until beans are tender. Check and stir a few times, keeping beans from drying out. Skim off fat before serving. Season to taste.

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