1. Sort the beans to remove any rotten or cracked beans.
2. Rinse the beans thoroughly using a colander.
3. Soak the beans in a large bowl for 24 hours.
4. Drain the beans.
5. The transfer the beans to a large stock pan.
6. Cover the beans with water.
7. Cover the pot and cook the beans over medium low heat. (If the beans start to boil turn down the heat. You want them to simmer but not boil.)
8. Stir every 20 minutes.
9. After 2 hours remove a bean and test for doneness.
10. Stir in salt to taste and any optional ingredients.