Step 1

Pick over and discard any broken dried beans.

Step 2

Add beans to a colander and rinse with cold water for 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 3

In a large saucepan or dutch oven add beans, 1 ½ tablespoons salt, and 8 cups water, stir to dissolve.

Step 4

Bring to a boil for 2 minutes. Turn off heat and cover the beans for 1 hour of soaking.

Step 5

Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

Step 6

In the same pan add the soaked beans, 4 cups of water, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Step 7

Bring water to a simmer over medium-high heat. Cover and reduce heat to low. Stir occasionally to make sure they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot, about every 30 minutes.

Step 8

Gently cook beans over low heat until tender and creamy, about 60 to 90 minutes.

Step 9

Drain and serve them warm.