Drunken Beans

Directions

1. 1
   Soak beans in cold water to cover by 2 inches, refrigerated, for at least 8 hours. Drain. To soak beans more quickly, put the beans in a saucepan and cover with cold water by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and boil for 2 minutes, then remove from the heat and let the beans soak, covered, for 1 hour. Drain.
2. 2
   Put a rack in the middle of oven and preheat oven to 300 degrees.
3. 3
   Cook bacon, onion and oregano in a 6-quart ovenproof pot over medium heat, stirring and scraping up any brown bits, until onion is lightly browned. Then add garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Add beans, water, jalapenos, and beer and bring to a boil.
4. 4
   Cover pot, transfer to oven, and bake beans until soft, 1 1/2 to 2 hours. (Add additional water if beans begin to dry out; mixture should be soupy and beans very soft but not falling apart.).
5. 5
   Stir in salt and bake beans, covered, for 10 minutes more. Check seasoning and add more salt if necessary.
6. 6
   NOTE: The beans can be cooked up to 2 days ahead. Cool, uncovered, then refrigerate, covered. Reheat, covered, over low heat.