Barbecue Beans

2 cans baked beans (I prefer Bush's in bacon and sugar)

12 slices bacon

3 cloves finely crushed garlic

l medium finely chopped onion

l/2 of one finely-chopped green or red bell pepper

l teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

l tablespoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and fresh ground black pepper

Cut the bacon into 1/2 inch pieces and cook in a medium sized pot until medium well done.  Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.  Pour some of the bacon fat out of the pot or leave it in.(Your decision.) Add chopped onion, bell pepper and garlic.  Season with salt and pepper and saute until the onions are solf and golden, but not brown, about 4 minutes.  Add the bacon and remaining ingredients and bring to a slow simmer. 

Submitted: 11/9/01