Home-Cooked Beans: Stovetop, Slow-Cooker, or Pressure Cooker

1. Prepare the Beans

Inspect the dried beans, removing any debris or damaged beans, then rinse them well in a colander to ensure they're clean.

2. Kick-Start the Cooking Process

For slow-cooker beans, place the rinsed beans in a pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a rolling boil, then transfer the beans and their water into the slow-cooker.

3. Combine Ingredients

Add the boiled beans, water, pork lard, vegetable oil, or bacon drippings, chopped onion, and optional epazote or avocado leaves to your chosen cooking device (stovetop pot, slow-cooker, or pressure cooker).

4. Cooking the Beans

For slow-cooker, cook on high for 6 to 10 hours. For stovetop, simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 hours. For pressure cooker, secure the lid and cook under high pressure for 25 minutes following safety instructions.

5. Season the Beans

Once the beans are tender, season them with salt. Simmer for a few more minutes to integrate the flavors, tasting as you go to ensure they're perfectly seasoned.

6. Final Touches

Remove the epazote or avocado leaves before serving, to keep the dish clean and flavorful.