Black beans

Directions

1. The night before, soak the beans in a large bowl with water to cover at least 3-4 inches. Soak the salted cured beef in water to cover. The next morning, drain the beans and place in a large pot with water to cover by at least 3 inches. Bring the beans to a boil in medium heat.

2. Meanwhile, cut the salted cured beef into 1-inch pieces. Cut the sausage into 1-inch pieces. Cut the ribs into 2-rib sections.

3. Add the salted cured beef, sausage, ribs and bay leaves to the beans. Simmer for about 2 hours or until soft, stirring from time to time, adding water as necessary to keep beans covered. Keep an eye on the beans so they don’t burn at the bottom!

4. Chop the onion and garlic. Heat the olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until golden brown. Add two ladlefuls of beans and mash them. Put this back into the pot. It will thicken and season the beans.

5. Continue to simmer gently for at least another hour, adding water as necessary. Remove the bay leaves. Some people take the meats out at this point and serve them separately on a platter. I like to leave them in with the beans, it keeps them hot. Serve and garnishes in ceramic bowls and platters.

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