Butter Bean Medley

Ingredients

• 2 smoked ham hocks
• 2 onion slices , preferably Vidalia, about 1⁄4 inch thick, separated into rings
• 4 cups fresh or frozen butter beans
• 2 slices bacon or 2 tablespoons bacon drippings
• 4 to 6 drops hot pepper sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt ,

Cooking Directions

1. Bring 8 cups water to a boil in a Dutch oven. 
2. Add the ham hocks, onion, beans, bacon, and hot sauce. 
3. Return to a boil and reduce the heat.
4. Simmer, covered, until the beans are tender, about 40 minutes. 
5. Add more water, if needed.
6. Drain the beans, if desired.
7. Sprinkle with the sugar and season with salt; stir gently to blend.
8. Spoon into a serving bowl.