How to Cook Dry Beans

1. Follow the instructions above to pick, wash, then soak the beans in cold water for 30 mins.
2. Change the water, and soak in cold water for another 30 mins.
3. Drain beans, then add them to a pressure cooker or instant pot. Add the desired dry herbs, dry/smoked pepper, and/or smoked animal producst such as smoked sausage, smoked ribs, smoked ham hock... at this time - cover with 5 to 5 1/2 cups of water.
4. Close the instant pot, and cook on manual for 30 mins**
5. After 30 mins, safely release the pressure and open the pan.
6. Change the now open/uncovered instant pot settings to sauté mode, and let the beans simmer, stirring occasionally.
7. Season with salt and pepper, add the spices, and the acid. Stir and continue to simmer.
8. Meanwhile, add fat of choice (bacon, pancetta, olive oil...) to a large skillet over medium to high heat. (If using animal fat, render the fat, and cook until browned. You may need a little olive oil as well before you add the aromatics)
9. Add the aromatics (such as onions, shallots...) to the skillet and sautée until the transparent and soft, 2-3 mins.
10. Add the garlic to the skillet, stir and sautée until fragrant and lightly golden.
11. Pour the contents of the skillet into the beans, stir and let it simmer until desired thickness is reached.
12. If freezing, portion the beans into freeer safe containers, and let them cool to room temperature before closing and putting away. Read Freezing Beans section above for more detail.

Bom Apetite!