A Well Seasoned Pot of Beans

Put beans in a large pot and cover with water. Turn the heat to high and bring to a boil. Add bay leaves, cumin or chili powder, crushed garlic and thyme. Cover loosely; adjust heat so that beans simmer. When they begin to soften, season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook; stirring occasionally, until they are very tender, at least one hour; add water if necessary. Add two cloves of minced garlic and one minced onion. Cook 5 to 10 minutes longer and season with more salt, pepper and chili or cumin. Discard bay leaves.