Beans from the Latin Quarter

INGREDIENTS

• 1-1/2 cups dry Navy Beans
• 2 tablespoons margarine
• 2 onions, diced
• 1/2 cup celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

PREPARATION

1. Drain soaked beans and set aside.
2. Heat margarine in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add onions and celery.
4. Cook 6 minutes.
5. Add garlic, and cook another 2 minutes.
6. Add beans and seasonings, except salt.
7. Mix well.
8. Add enough water to cover beans by 2 inches.
9. Bring to a boil.
10. Partly cover and cook beans 2-1/2 hours over medium heat.
11. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.