(I apologize for ticking anyone off by thinking outloud after getting such good answers to my earlier questions, but...> Isn't there a 'chili bean' which is smaller than pintos and more flavorful and usually the choice of chili cooks in Mexico proper? I've only been able to find these small 'chili beans' one time. That was in Safeway's 'ethnic foods' section. -Allan 1>Allan, > >Pick the pintos as they stripe, (the pods will turn yelloy and red stripes >will appear) The bean is physiologically mature but still about 40%+ >moisture. They will cook faster and have an outstanding "fresh" taste. We >usually go out to a local farmer that grows pintos and pick 2 -3 buckets >full, shell them and fresh can them for later use. Contact your local >County Extension Agent (or myself, I am an Extension Agent), for canning >recommendations. I can be contacted at: > >npeterso@ndsuext.nodak.edu (I am an Extension Agent) > >Enjoy, Nels