Black Beans (Frijoles Negros)

Olguita Ball-llovera Sikes

ingredients

1 pound dried black beans, rinsed in cold water and then soaked overnight in cold water to cover by 1 1/2 - 2".
1 bay leaf
1 medium-size green bell pepper. seeded and cut into quarters
1/3 cup olive oil.
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped.
1 small onion finely chopped.
2 teaspoons ground cumin.
1 teaspoon oregano.

1
1. The next day, check that the water is still covering the beans by 1 1/2 to 2 inches, and add more water if needed.
2
2. Pour into a large saucepan, add the bay leaf and green pepper, bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low, and cook uncovered, until the beans are tender and they have almost cracked open, about 2 hours. Check the beans while they are cooking and if they need more liquid, add some hot water.
3
2. Add the rest of the ingredients, cook over low heat, covered, until the beans crack open, for 30 to 40 minutes.
4
Serve with rice and chopped onions, if desired.