Spray your crockpot with cooking spray generously. Rinse and pick through the beans well.

Cut onion rougly. Rinse, deseed, I leave half of the seeds in, and cut Jalapeños, mince garlic, rougly chop bacon.

Pour ALL ingredients into crockpot, add enough water to cover beans (we like a lot of the juice so I make sure the beans have an extra 1-2, 3-5 inches of water). Now turn on high 4-5 hrs or on low 6-8 hrs OR until beans are tender, still slightly firm, but not mushy. I've learned that every crock pot is a little different in cooking times.

Ok, I admit it, I taste the juice every so....well...frequently, to make sure the spices are mixing well and that I've added enough. The recipe is a basic go to and i usually end up adding more pinto bean seasoning and garlic powder.

Remove the ham hock when it starts separating from the bone. You can add salt and pepper to taste right before serving, the boullion cube and ham hock can add a salty taste. If desired, Serve with toppings of your choice. (I serve with sweet homemade corn bread.) Don't forget to let me know what ya think!