Black Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Soak beans in a large soup pot, with enough water to cover the beans, for at least six to eight hours.
2. 2
   Add two bay leaves and a few drops of olive oil to the water.
3. 3
   Cook the beans over high heat for 90 minutes, checking frequently to see that there is enough water in the pot.
4. 4
   The water should always cover the beans.
5. 5
   Once the beans are tender, prepare a sofrito by combining the onion, green pepper, garlic, oregano, ground pepper and olive oil in a small frying pan.
6. 6
   Cook over medium-high heat for six to eight minutes, stirring frequently.
7. 7
   Add the sofrito to the black beans, reducing the heat on the beans to low.
8. 8
   Mix the sofrito well with the beans, pressing some of the beans with a slotted spoon so that the flavors will soak in.
9. 9
   Add the salt and sugar to the beans and simmer for half an hour.
10. 10
    Remove bay leaves and serve.