Hi, I make my beans with no ham hock or meat of any kind. They are just plain mexican beans. I add a half onion on the bottom of the pot. sort beans rinse and put in the pot. I do not soak them. I add 1 tsp garlic, cilantro, oregano (dry) cumin pepper and salt. And I also add a small amount of olive oil. Let them cook for 2 to 2 1/2 hours. I use a mexican crock pot that cooks on the stove. Try this recipe you will like. Maria