Recipe: To serve 4 generously

1 pound of black beans (or 2 cans)

(If using dry beans, soak them overnight in some hot water. Rinse. Pressure cook them with a cup of water for 10-12 minutes or cook them in salted water for 30-40 minutes till fork tender. Reserve the cooking liquid)

1 Medium white onion, chopped fine

2 Medium tomatoes chopped fine

1 Tbsp tomato paste

2 Cloves of garlic smashed

2-3 strips of smoked bacon (optional)

2 Bay leaves

1 Tbsp of cumin seeds, roasted and ground.

4 cups of your favorite broth.

salt and pepper to taste

Saute the garlic and onions (bacon if using) in 1 tbsp of olive oil for 3-4 minutes in a stockpot. Add the tomatoes and the paste and cook for 4-5 minutes till the mixture starts leaving the sides of the pot. Add the beans and the seasonings. Add the broth and mix well. Lower the heat and let cook 25-30 minutes. Keep stirring the pot. Add a Tbsp of fresh  squeezed lime juice and serve warm or hot !

Enjoy!