Habichuelas Negras

Ingredients

 * 1 - 1 lb. package red kidney beans
 * 3 - tbs.. tomato paste (This is optional. You may use one can of tomato sauce instead.)
 * 3 - tbs.. olive oil
 * 4 - tbs.. salt
 * 1- tsp. black pepper
 * 2 - tbs.. oregano
 * 1/4 lb. of cooking ham (ham steak) cut into small squares. (Ham adds a nice flavor but is also optional.)
 * 1/4 cup sofrito

Directions

 * 1) Check beans, look for stones, and discard any beans that are not whole.
 * 2) Rinse beans in cold water, drain, and place in a 5-quart pot. Soak overnight in 5-6 cups water if you have time. #However, if you would like to make them the same day, bring the beans to a boil in four cups of water, turn off the burner and let stand for an hour.
 * 3) If you are using the beans that have soaked overnight, drain, add four cups of water, bring to a boil, lower heat and let simmer.
 * 4) Brown the ham lightly in the olive oil. Add sofrito and stir. (WOW ! ) Now stir in the tomato paste and the rest of the ingredients. Once the flavors have blended and you have a nice consistency pour this mixture into the bean pot and stir.
 * 5) Place the frying pan back on the stove and de glaze the pan with 1/2 cup of the broth from the bean pot and then return this mixture to the bean pot.
 * 6) Let beans simmer for about 30 minutes at medium heat and reduce heat to a low simmer for about 1 1/2 hours stirring now and then. Add water as needed.
 * 7) Taste for salt and other herbs and spices . You will know that the beans are ready when you can press them with a fork and they are soft to the touch, however, you don't want them too soft. the sauce should be fairly thick.