Southern black beans

1. Place beans and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil.
2. Reducei heat, cover and cook over low heat for 1 hour.
3. Add remaining ingredients except the arrowroot.
4. Cover and continue cooking for 1& ½ hours longer.
5. To thicken the bean mixture before serving, mix the cornstarch with ¼ c. cold water.
6. Remove beans from heat, slowly add the cornstarch mixture while stirring.
7. Return to heat and stir until thickened.
8. Serve over born rice.
9. good with chopped onions sprinkled over the top of beans and rice.
10. Also try some green chili salsa spooned over the top.