New Orleans Style Red Beans

Note: To reduce cooking time soak beans overnight in 4 cups water or put 2 cups of beans in a pot, cover with 4 cups water, bring to a boil and cook for 2 minutes; remove from the heat, cover the pot and let stand for 1 hour.

1. In a black cast iron pot, sauté the bacon until limp then add the onions, bell pepper, green onions, parsley and garlic.
2. Cook until onions are clear, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the beans, ham hock to the pot and add enough water to make 6 cups.
4. Stir.
5. Add the seasonings and stir.
6. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 2 hours or until beans become tender and have made a thick sauce.
7. Add Andouille Sausage last 30 minutes of cooking and heat.
8. Stir to prevent scorching on bottom.
9. Add additional water to keep beans covered.
10. Serve over boiled rice with pickled onions.