COWBOY'S BORDER BEANS

Water to fill a tall pot half-full
2 1/2 lb. dry pinto beans
1/2 lb. ham hock (or salt pork)
6 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 tsp. dried oregano
10 chile pequenos, mashed
2 tsp. lemon juice or salt

Add beans to pot (half-filled with water) and bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning. Reduce heat to slow simmer and cook five hours uncovered, letting beans "pack." Do not stir, but add boiling water to keep beans covered.