Pinto Beans with Cornbread

Rinse and sort beans, removing any debris.

Place beans, ham hock, onion, garlic, water, and bay leaves in large pot.

Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer 2-3 hours until beans are very tender.

Remove ham hock, shred meat, and return to pot.

Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Simmer 15 more minutes, mashing some beans against the side of the pot to thicken.

Remove bay leaves.

Serve in bowls with cornbread on the side.