Crockpot Bean Soup

2 to 3 cups pinto beans, lentils or mixed varieties
1 bay leaf
10 cups water or broth
1 small onion, chopped
1 chopped green bell pepper
1/2 cup grated carrot
1 teaspoon salt or to preference
Dash red or black pepper
1 clove garlic

Place all ingredients in a crockpot. Cook overnight or 6 to 8 hours on HIGH.

Variation: Add taco seasoning and 1 can tomato sauce after cooking and one can of corn; no need to drain.

Serve with corn chips or cornbread.