How To Cook Black Beans

Rinse beans and check for stones and debris. Add beans to a large bowl and add water to cover by at least 4 inches. Cover and let soak for at least 6 hours and up to overnight.  Drain beans and return to pot. Cover with 4" of water and add onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes, then reduce heat low and cover. Let beans lightly simmer until tender, 1 to 2 hours depending on the size and age of the beans. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary. When beans are tender, remove aromatics and season to taste with salt and pepper. Rinse beans and check for stones and debris. Transfer to a medium or large sauce pan and cover with 2" of water. Bring up to a rolling boil and cook for 1 minute, then remove pan from heat and let beans soak for 1 hour. Drain beans and return to pot. Cover with 4" of water and add onion, garlic, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil and cook for 10 minutes, then reduce heat low and cover. Let beans lightly simmer until tender, 1 to 2 hours depending on the size and age of the beans. Stir occasionally and add more water if necessary. When beans are tender, remove aromatics and season to taste with salt and pepper.