Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans 
– 6 cups water 
– 1 onion, chopped 
– 3 cloves garlic, minced 
– 1 ham hock or 1 cup diced ham 
– 1 teaspoon salt 
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper 
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin 
– 1 bay leaf 
– 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional) 
Instructions:
1. Prepare the beans: Rinse the dried pinto beans under cold water and remove any debris.
2. Combine ingredients: In a crockpot, add the rinsed beans, water, chopped onion, minced garlic, ham hock or diced ham, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, cumin, and bay leaf. If using diced tomatoes, add them as well.
3. Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender. Alternatively, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours. 
4. Serve: Remove the ham hock, shred the meat if desired, and return it to the beans. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty Southern dish! 
Enjoy your Southern Crockpot Pintos—a comforting and flavorful meal!