Black Bean Soup

Ingredients:
1 pound dry black beans
1 pound of bacon, finely chopped
2 1/2 quarts water
1 large onion, chopped
1 large bell pepper, chopped
2 cups celery, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 - 8oz cans tomato sauce
2 tsp each: oregano, Accent seasoning, and cumin
4 tsp sugar
4 tsp chili powder
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
Wash beans. In a heavy, large pot cook bacon until fat is rendered but not crisp. Add water and other ingredients, bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer, covered. As beans soften, mash on the side of pot with a large spoon. Cook 2 or 3 hours until beans are soft and mashed. Serve with fresh chopped onion, hot peppers, and cheese.