Step 1

Spread the beans out on a rimmed baking sheet and sort through them, discarding any stones, dirt, or broken beans. Rinse the beans, then do an overnight or a quick soak.

Step 2

Cover the beans with the 8 cups of water and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons of salt. Leave the beans to soak at least 8 hours, or overnight. Drain the beans and discard the soaking liquid.

Step 3

Put the beans, 8 cups of water, and 2 teaspoons of salt in an Instant Pot or other pressure cooker. Pressure cook at high pressure for 1 minute (use “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode in an Instant Pot), then let the beans sit for 30 minutes. Release any remaining pressure, drain the beans and discard the soaking liquid. (Wipe the pot out if you’re using it again to cook the beans.)

Step 4

Put the soaked beans in the Instant Pot, add 5 cups of water, sprinkle with the teaspoon of salt, then add the onion halves and thyme. Lock the lid and pressure cook at high pressure for 15 minutes in an Instant Pot or other electric PC (use “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” mode in an Instant Pot), or for 12 minutes in a stovetop PC. Let the pressure come down naturally for 15 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 5

Discard the onion and thyme sprigs. To use as a side dish, serve the beans with their broth; to add to another recipe, drain the beans and cool. Enjoy!