Soak the Beans: If you have time, soak the beans in water overnight. If you're short on time, use the quick soak method described above.
Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Beans: Once the aromatics are ready, add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot.
Cooking the Beans: Pour in the fresh water and add the bay leaves and any other herbs or spices you're using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot partially with a lid. Cook the beans for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but not mushy.
Seasoning: Once the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Taste the beans and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a richer flavor, you can also stir in some additional herbs or spices at this point.
Serve: Your beans are now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them as a side dish, incorporate them into salads, soups, or stews, or use them as a filling for tacos and burritos.
