"Soda Jerk" Beans

This is such an easy colorful recipe that it's unbelievable. You just get all the ingredients together and cook for about 20 minutes, although if you cook it for longer it does become tastier.

The original recipe is from Bon Appetit, and there are small changes that I have made to it.

I enjoy the taste better if I sautee the ham or andouille sausage with the onion and pepper before throwing it in.

The sugar is too much for me, so I have reduced it to 2 tablespoons.

This recipe is really a lot of food, so if you are cooking for 2, you can freeze the rest, it keeps well.

"SODA JERK" BEANS

Ingredients:
2 cups 1/2-inch cubes cooked ham
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes in juice, drained
1 15-ounce can pork and beans, rinsed, drained
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed, drained
1 15-ounce can butter beans, rinsed, drained
1 15-ounce can pinto beans, rinsed, drained
1 large onion, chopped
1 large red bell pepper, chopped
1 large green bell pepper, chopped
1/2 cup (packed) dark brown sugar
1/2 cup cola-flavored soda
1/2 cup lemon-lime soda
2 teaspoons curry powder
1/2 teaspoon dried savory
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Directions:
Place all ingredients in heavy large pot.

Bring to boil over medium-high heat, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered until juices are thick, stirring gently and frequently to prevent burning, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Makes about 10 cups.