Step 1

Sort the beans and remove any stones or pebbles. Rinse and drain the beans to remove any surface dirt.

Step 2

In a large bowl or pot, place the dry beans and cover with two inches of water. Allow them to soak overnight or up to 24 hours.

Step 3

Rinse and drain the beans and place them in a large pot. Add the water, onion, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

Step 4

Once the pot is bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow the beans to cook until very tender, about one to two hours. You’ll know the beans are done when you scoop up a couple beans in a spoon and blowing on them causes their skins to break open.

Step 5

Drain the beans and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 6

In a large bowl or pot, place the dry beans and cover with two inches of water. Allow them to soak overnight or up to 24 hours.

Step 7

Rinse and drain the beans and place them in the crock of a slow cooker. Add the water, onion, and bay leaf.

Step 8

Cook the beans for 8 to 10 hours on LOW or 6 hours on HIGH. You can also start them cooking before you go to bed and they’ll be done in the morning. You’ll know the beans are done when you scoop up a couple beans in a spoon and blowing on them causes their skins to break open.

Step 9

Drain the beans and season to taste with salt and pepper.

Step 10

Place the beans, water, onion, and bay leaf into the pot of an electric pressure cooker.

Step 11

Secure the lid and turn on the pressure valve. Set the machine to manual for 20 minutes. When the time is done, press cancel and let the pressure release naturally.

Step 12

Drain the beans and season to taste with salt and pepper.