Make this recipe a recipe that people in that category can eat. categories: ['low_calorie'], recipe: place beans in a colander and rinse with cold running water. pick over the beans and remove any stones or foreign objects. place beans in a clean pot, cover with fresh cold water, and soak for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight to expedite the cooking process. drain the beans. in a large stainless steel pot, combine the beans, 1 quart water, and all the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. when the water reaches a boil, skim the surface, reduce the heat, and simmer until the beans are tender, about 1 hour. drain the liquid from the beans and reserve for use in other recipes. discard the bay leaf.

Target recipe: in a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. add minced garlic and red-pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. add black beans and 1 cup water. bring to a simmer; cook, covered, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. season with coarse salt, and garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.