Charleston "Old Jail" Chili Beans

If you have never visited Charleston, S.C. you really should put it on your "bucket list". There is so much history in that "Holy City", when the church bells start ringing you will swear you're already in heaven. Charleston is a walking city, so take comfy shoes. Don't forget to visit the "Old Jail".

Charleston "Old Jail" Chili Beans
makes 6-8 servings
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2 cups dry beans
6 cups water
2 cups red chili sauce (I use Heinz)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1/2 pound ground beef, or sausage or your choice

Wash beans and boil in water for 2 minutes. Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour or longer. I prefer to soak my beans overnight in water to cover by 2-inches. Drain the next morning and proceed. Cook beans 1 1/2 to 2 hours, depending on kind, until tender. Simmer the chili sauce with the spices, onion and garlic clove for 15 minutes. Brown meat while chili sauce is cooking. Gently mix drained beans, chili sauce and meat. Boil gently a few minutes longer.

These are better made a day or two ahead of serving.