Pinto Beans with Beef

1 lb. pinto beans
1 lb. ground beef
1 t. chili powder
1/4 t. baking soda
1 garlic clove, minced
Salt & pepper to taste
1 can Rotel
Crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Soak beans overnight and drain. Combine beans and fresh water to cover. Add chili powder, baking soda, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 4 hours. Brown beef in skillet; drain. Stir beef and Rotel tomatoes into bean mixture. Cook for 1 hour. This can be done in a Crock Pot for 6-7 hours on LOW heat.

Serves 18-24

From the kitchen of ... Mark and Shannon