Black Beans

This classic bean recipe is rich in aromas and flavors. Serve it at a gathering of family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb black beans
• 10 cups water
• 2 large green peppers
• 2/3 cup + 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 4 garlic cloves
• 1 large green pepper
• 4 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp ground oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp white sugar
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 2 tbsp dry wine

Instructions

At least six hours before cooking, wash and rinse the beans and place them in a large bowl with 10 cups of water. Cut one green pepper in half and place both halves in the bowl. Let the beans and pepper sit for approximately six hours.

Pour the water, beans and green pepper into a pressure cooker and cook for 15 minutes. Blend the onion, the other green pepper and the garlic cloves in the blender. Pour this mixture into a hot skillet containing 2/3 cup of olive oil. Sauté until the color of the mixture becomes a lighter green. Add about one cup of the beans to the skillet and mash them. Pour the entire mixture from the skillet into the cooker with the remaining beans. Add salt, black pepper, oregano, bay leaf and sugar. Let it boil for approximately 30 minutes. Add vinegar and wine. Slow cook for another 20 minutes. Just prior to serving, add the last two tablespoons of olive oil. Serves eight.