Simplest Slow Cooker Black Beans

1 lb. dried black beans, no need to soak

1 half of a small onion, halved through the core to keep it intact

1 bay leaf

1 garlic clove, smashed and halved

2 to 4 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more to taste

½ to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

¼ cup olive oil

Place the beans, onion half, bay leaf, garlic, 2 to 3 teaspoons kosher salt (I always use 3), pepper flakes (start with ½ teaspoon if you are sensitive to heat), and olive oil (if using) into a slow cooker.
Cover with 8 cups of water.
Cover pot.
Cook on high heat for 6 to 8 hours or until the beans are done, but start checking at the 4-hour mark — all slow cookers are different and times might vary, too, depending on the age of your beans.
Taste. Add more salt to taste ½ teaspoon at a time.
Note: The beans develop more flavor as they cool in their cooking liquid, which will continue to season them.
Store the beans in their cooking liquid.

Course🍚Side Dish

Diets🌱Vegan🌾Gluten-free...

Category🫘Beans

Cuisine🇺🇸American

Occasions🍲Comfort Food📆Everyday

Season🔁Year-round

DifficultyVery Easy ⏰ 4h