This is the NO SOAK METHOD for the beans: Sort and rinse the beans, check for any unwanted debris and discard. Set aside the Ham Flavor packet from the package.

Drain and place the beans in a slow cooker with 8 cups water, onion, meat, garlic, chili powder and red pepper. (No tomatoes yet!)

Set slow cooker on HIGH and cook for 5 hours or until beans are tender, but not falling apart.

After the beans are tender, stir in the can of tomatoes, the Ham Flavor packet from the bean package and the lemon juice.

Cook for an additional 30 minutes then keep warm and serve when ready.

Please keep in mind that every time the lid is opened, your cooking time will be longer.

Cooking Tips: Remember that this is a NO SOAK recipe, but if you prefer to soak the beans overnight first, that's not a problem. Just use 1 cup less of the water in the slow cooker.