Black Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Place the beans and ham hock in a medium saucepan and pour in enough water to cover them by 2 inches.
2. 2
   Toss in the bay leaves and bring the water to a boil, then adjust the heat so the water is boiling gently.
3. 3
   Cook the beans, skimming off any foam that rises to the top, until tender, about 2 hours.
4. 4
   Keep an eye on the beans; they should always be covered by liquid.
5. 5
   When the liquid meets the level of the beans, add 1/2 inch or so of cold water.
6. 6
   Toward the end of cooking, ease up on the liquid you add.
7. 7
   The goal is to have the beans barely covered with liquid by the time they are tender.