Cheap Eats

With today's economy in the slumps like it is, I figured I would post some recipes that are budget friendly as well as delicious. Dave Ramsey says when you are trying to save money you should eat beans and rice, rice and beans. So, here are two delicious bean recipes to help you through these tough economic times. When I want to beef up the recipe a bit, I'll add some sliced smoked sausage (turkey smoked sausage when I'm being good) in the last 30 minutes of cooking time instead of adding the grease or oil to the recipe. Serve over white rice and add a side of cornbread and you will be in Southern Heaven. (By the way, don't ask me which of these recipes is better - they are both fantastic!)

Sarah’s “Famous” Cilantro Beans
submitted by my aunt, Sarah Jones

2 lb. bag of pinto beans
1 can Rotel tomatoes
1 large clove garlic, minced
Cilantro leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper
1 Tablespoon bacon drippings (health conscious cooks may substitute olive oil)

Sort and rinse beans thoroughly in colander. Soak for about 30 minutes (minimum), then place in a crockpot filled with water. Turn on the crockpot and let it work, adding water as needed. (I usually put them on late at night before going to bed on low and add water as needed in the morning; otherwise cook on high.) When beans are completely cooked, add Rotel, cilantro leaves, garlic, salt and pepper to taste, and bacon drippings. Stir and let simmer for another 20 minutes or so. Voila! Buen Probecho!!!

Abbie's Pinto Beanssubmitted by my dad, Abbie Linsenbardt

2 pounds dry beans, washed and sorted
5 full slices bacon, plus grease from cooking
1 Tablespoon garlic powder
1 Tablespoon paprika
1 Tablespoon cilantro
1 teaspoon salt (may need more later)
1 teaspoon pepper
chopped onion

Soak beans overnight. Rinse and put into crock pot. Cover with water.

Fry bacon, crumble and put into pot. Add 1 Tablespoon of bacon grease and remaining ingredients. Cook on high heat until beans are tender. Continue to check water level and add more water to keep beans covered.