Cumin Garlic Black Beans

I am still on the search for the perfect black bean recipe. This one is getting pretty close. I like it because it mostly involves spices from my cupboard and is super simple and easy to make. It is close to my Cuban Black Bean Recipe but with a lot more cumin and garlic.

Ingredients

• 1/2 pound black beans
• 4 cups water + 3 cups water
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 cup diced onion or 1.5 tsp onion powder or 1 tbsp onion flakes (I prefer fresh onion)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 2 diced cloves)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Directions

• Pre-soak the beans for for 8-12 hours in the 4 cups water and baking soda.
• Drain the beans then add to an Instant Pot or regular stovetop pot along with all the ingredients
• If using an Instant Pot, set it to high simmer and bring to a boil. Then reduce to low simmer and cover with vent. Cook for 60 minutes or until desired tenderness.
• If using a stovetop pot, bring everything to a boil and simmer for 60 minutes  or until desired tenderness.
• Remove from the heat and serve as is or drain any excess liquid then serve.