Black Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Place beans in a colander and rinse with cold running water.
2. 2
   Pick over the beans and remove any stones or foreign objects.
3. 3
   Place beans in a clean pot, cover with fresh cold water, and soak for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to expedite the cooking process.
4. 4
   Drain the beans.
5. 5
   In a large stainless steel pot, combine the beans, 1 quart water, and all the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.
6. 6
   When the water reaches a boil, skim the surface, reduce the heat, and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 hour.
7. 7
   Drain the liquid from the beans and reserve for use in other recipes.
8. 8
   Discard the bay leaf.