On a trip to California I sampled a black bean side form the El Pollo Loco restaurant chain. I liked the taste and after I returned home I tried to make a copy-cat version. I came up with a similar dish but it was not exactly the same like most copy-cat versions. That is mostly because I followed my own personal taste preferences instead of trying to make an exact copy. My version is a slightly sweet and quite spicy version. Reducing the chili pepper flakes to 1/8 teaspoon makes a milder; go with your personal taste.

• 2 15-ounce cans black beans, undrained
• 1 1/2 cups of water
• 1 Teaspoon dried onion fakes
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 4 Strips of bacon, fried crisp and crumbled
• Fat from the fried bacon, up to 2 tablespoons, to taste

• 1 Cup chicken broth
• 3 Tablespoons diced green chilies
• 3 Tablespoons catsup
• 2 Tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/8 to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, to taste

All the ingredients go into a large sauce pot or crock pot. Heat while stirring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 5 hours or until the desired consistency. It makes a slightly sweet, spicy dish. It is an excellent side dish as is or serve over rice for a main dish. A bit of diced onion, shredded cilantro and grated cheese (suggest Southwest 4-cheese mix variety) and even some diced tomatoes or sour cream served alongside lets the diner customize the dish to their liking. You will have them coming back for more.