Frijoles Negros

Ingredients

 * 2 cups dried black beans
 * 4 cloves garlic
 * 2 tsp. dried oregano
 * 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro (coriander leaves)
 * 1 tsp. salt
 * 12 cups cold water

Directions

 * 1) Sort and wash beans, discarding shrivelled or cracked ones; soak overnight in cold water.
 * 2) Drain beans discarding the water, rinse under running tap water and place in a soup pot with 12 cups water.
 * 3) Peel garlic cloves (do not chop) and coarsely chop the cilantro (stems too).
 * 4) Add salt, garlic, oregano and cilantro to beans and bring to boil.
 * 5) Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 2 or more hours (preferrably 3-4 hours).
 * 6) Remove garlic cloves.
 * 7) Drain and serve (or use in Gallo Pinto, Sopa Negra, mashed in sandwiches etc. Save the cooling water if making Sopa Negra).