Step 1

Preheat the oven to 325.

Step 2

Add the beans, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, bay leaf, and jalapeno if you are using it to a Dutch oven or oven proof pot.

Step 3

Add water until the beans are covered by 1 inch of water. You could also use chicken or vegetable broth.

Step 4

Cover and bake for 75 minutes. Check the done-ness and cook for another 15-20 minutes if needed. If you notice the beans begin to dry out, add hot water in 1/2 cup increments.