Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
   1      pound         dried pinto beans
   2                    ham hocks
   1      small         onion -- chopped
   2      tablespoons   salt
   1      teaspoon      freshly ground black pepper
   1      teaspoon      sugar
   1      clove         garlic -- crushed

Preparation:

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. 3. Cover with water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to simmering and cook, covered, until the bean are tender, about 45 minutes. 4. Check the seasoning and serve the beans hot.