Apr 30, 2009
Good. I can't have garlic, so subbed shallots instead. Beans that haven't soaked will be tough. Soak overnight and throw out that water. Replace with fresh water and continue with the recipe. Or bring beans to a boil. Let sit for an hour or two, then toss that water. Use fresh water and proceed with recipe. Or just use canned beans. Changing the water will take the toot out of the beans. Also, be sure not to add the salt until the beans are almost cooked through. If you add it early, the beans will be tough. If using canned beans, you won't need to add salt as there is plenty in the beans already.
—mermaid