The best way to soften dried beans is to soak them overnight. Then in the morning, rinse the beans and place in a pot and add water about an inch higher than the beans and bring to a moderate simmer for 10 minutes. Then, turn the burner to low and cover the pot. Allow them to sit on low heat for an hour or so and check every 30 minutes for tenderness. If your beans are old, they may never soften so make sure the beans you're using aren't expired.