1 lb. beans, soaked and drained

2 cans broth, chicken or vegetable

2 pouches ham powder, if not making vegetarian beans

1 t. smoked paprika

1 T. salt

1 T. black pepper

1/2 t. cayenne

1/2 t. chipotle

1/2 t. cumin

1/2 t. coriander

2 T. oil, divided

1 med. onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, finely chopped

1 jalapeno pepper, finely chopped

1 lb. lean pork or chicken, smoked sausage, bacon, ham, or combination (optional)

~1 c. water

1 can, well drained, or 1-2 c. frozen corn kernels

Mix broth and spices in crockpot. Add beans.

Cook onion and peppers in 1 T. oil over medium heat until soft. Add to crockpot.

If using meat, add 1 T. oil to pan and sear the meat over medium-high heat. Add to crock pot.*

Cook on high for 1 hour. Reduce crockpot to low and cook 6-8 additional hours until the beans are tender.

Corn (frozen or canned, that has been drained) can be added just before serving.

Break the meat into chunks before serving.

Serve over rice or quinoa, as desired.

*Alternatively, meat may be grilled, roasted, or prepared as desired, and added to beans just prior to serving or served on the side.