Cowboy Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Rinse and sort through the beans, removing any broken, shriveled, or discolored ones. Cover with water an inch over the beans and soak 6-8 hours or overnight.
2. 2
   In a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot, saute chopped onion in a little bacon fat, and add spices. I usually use at least a teaspoon of smoked Spanish paprika, and just a sprinkling of cayenne OR chili powder (because I'm a wimp when it comes to spicy things), but feel free to add more if you like.
3. 3
   Drain beans and add to the pot. Cover with water by 1 inch. Add tomato paste and stir well to blend. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to flavor the beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and cook beans until tender (usually at least 1 hour).
4. 4
   Once the beans are tender, add kielbasa and cook until everything is heated through. Taste for salt and add more if necessary.
5. 5
   Serve hot over rice or with cornbread. Top with chopped white onion, a little lemon or lime juice, cider vinegar, sour cream, shredded cheddar, or nothing.