First, beans should be soaked; it shortens the cooking time and improves the texture. You can either do this overnight, or by doing a quick soak. Quick Soak Method: For enough beans to make this black beans recipe, place 2/3 cup beans in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, and boil for two minutes. Remove the beans from the heat and let sit for one hour. Drain in a colander and discard the soaking water. (This decreases the content of a particular type of sugar called oligosaccharide which the human body cannot fully digest. Oligosaccharide is what causes gas and bloating.) To cook the soaked beans: Return the beans to the saucepan and cover with fresh water, then bring them to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer over low heat for about 2 hours, or until tender.