Best Darn Black Beans: How to Cook 'Em Right!

Ingredients

• 1 pound (454g) dried black beans, rinsed and picked over
• 6 cups (1.4 liters) water (or chicken/vegetable broth)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or more, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lime juice)