Step 1

Rinse the beans and remove any debris. Soak them in water in the refrigerator overnight (10 - 12 hours). Drain.

Step 2

Add the soaked beans to a large pot, along with the onions, salt, and bay leaves. Fill the pot with water so that there is about 2" of water above the beans.

Step 3

Bring to a boil, lower heat to a simmer, cover and cook for about 1 hour, or until beans have cooked through and are soft. Keep an eye on the beans while they cook and add water periodically if it starts to get low.

Step 4

Remove the bay leaves and onion; discard. Reserve about 2 cups of the water, and drain the rest.

Step 5

In a large pot or skillet, over medium heat, add the fat/oil and the garlic and saute until just fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the beans to the skillet and cook for a few minutes.

Step 6

Lower heat and mash the beans using a fork or a potato masher, adding the reserved water a little at a time, until you've reached your desired texture and consistency. Salt to taste and garnish as desired.