A Pot of Beans

I have cooked, at this point in my life, probably tons of beans. Inexpensive, filling fare that will fill a family's belly.  When I was po' folks, raising a hungry family, a pot of beans went a long way toward balancing the family budget.  Now that I'm a bit more comfortable, a pot of beans is a comfort food.

A commenter notes:

I've read that a pot of beans was often made on Mondays (laundry days), the meal basically cooking unattended for the most part.

That is true.  But, there are a couple of considerations.  First, beans will scorch, that one bean laying ont he bottom of the pot will scorch and taint the entire population.  Stir occasionally, to get the beans off the bottom.  Second, you will have to add water, so keep a little pot on the stove to add hot water when neded.  Adding cold water to the pot kills the simmer, and you want those beans on a low simmer. 

Aeasong is important, to your taste.  All that beans NEED is a bit of salt, but add what you like.  Those are your beans, so make them like you want them.  A bit of meat helps.  I like to use sausage, but I've also used bacon, or salt pork, or even browned hamburger.

I used to soak my beans overnight, but not anymore.  I've never seen the value, and nowadays I simply put the beans in a crock pot before bed, turn it on LOW, add plenty of water, and go to sleep.  When I get up to make coffee, give them a stir and add a little water.  Taste the broth and adjust he seasoning.  They will be ready for lunch.