Step 1

Add all ingredients to 6-quart slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook on high for 6 to 8 hours or until beans are soft and mash easily. Add more water if necessary during cooking to keep beans fully submerged in liquid.

Step 2

Reserving the liquid, strain the beans out into a large bowl (see note). Mash with a potato masher or immersion blender. Add the reserved liquid until you reach the consistency you desire.

Step 3

Serve, or cool completely and freeze in portions appropriate for your family.