Instructions: Completely soften beans as directed below. Drain and stir in remaining ingredients. Pour into Crock-Pot. Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 12 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours.

SOFTENING BEANS:
* Dried beans, should be boiled before adding to a recipe. Cover the beans with 3 times their volume of unsalted water and bring to a boil. Boil 10 minutes, and reduce heat.

* Beans must be softened completely before combining with sugar and/or acid foods. (Note: Sugar and acid have a hardening effect on the beans and will prevent softening.) After boiling beans 10 minutes, reduce heat, cover and allow to simmer 1 1/2 hours or until beans are tender. Soaking in water, if desired, should be completed before boiling. Discard water after soaking or boiling.

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