Place your beans in a bowl and rinse with water. Make sure to remove any dirt or debris.
Transfer the beans to a large pot and add 8 cups of chicken stock or water.
Toss in ⅛ teaspoon of baking soda, salt, 1 yellow onion, 3 peeled garlic cloves, and 2 bay leaves.
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook until the beans are tender and creamy, which will take roughly 1.5 to 3 hours.
Keep adding more water if necessary.
When the beans are tender, mash with a potato masher or blend until smooth.
Season with salt to taste.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter to finish.
Serve and Devour!
