1 package black beans (1 lb.)
1 bay leaf
1 onion, finely chopped
5 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon white vinegar
1 teaspoon olive or canola oil
salt and pepper to taste
Method:
1. Soak the beans over night in a large bowl overnight (or at least 8 hours). Rinse the beans several times and drain.
2. Heat the oil in a large dutch oven or tall pot with a lid. Add the onions and garlic and stir for about 5 minutes. Add the bay leaf and beans along with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil and then simmer for about 1 hour. After 30 minutes, add the cayenne, sugar and vinegar and continue cooking.
3. Taste beans for doneness and add salt and pepper as needed. Continue cooking if they seem hard. Can take up to an hour and 30 minutes depending on how hot your pan is and other unexplainable factors.