Step 1

Saute bacon in a large, high sided skillet (cast iron works well). Remove the bacon once crisp and drain most of the bacon grease from the pan. Add the diced onions and saute over medium high heat until softened, 2-3 minutes. Add minced garlic and saute until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.

Step 2

Add bay leaf and soaked, drained beans to the pan. Crumble the bacon and add it to the pan. Add enough water to cover the beans by about a half inch.

Step 3

Cover the pan and simmer until the beans are tender, roughly 1 hour, checking occasionally and adding water if necessary.

Step 4

Season with salt to taste and serve warm as a side dish or a protein-rich main with rice.*