Sort and wash beans

Rough chop all vegetables. Seed jalapeño if desired.

Place beans, chopped vegetables and meat in pot. Cover with water two to three inches above contents.

Add salt, bay leaves and one tablespoon of black pepper.

Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for approx. 1 ½ hrs or until tender.

Remove from heat.

Stir in reserved 1 tablespoon of black pepper and sour cream. Add additional salt if desired.