SPICY SPANISH-MEXICAN BLACK BEAN STEW

Steps:

• Soak the dried black beans overnight in a large bowl of water.
• The next day, drain well, rinse and transfer to a pot with 4 cups water, bring to boil and turn down to a simmer.
• Meanwhile, sauté garlic, onion and chilli in about one teaspoon oil until soft. Add in the chopped tomatoes and hot smoked paprika and lightly sauté for a few more minutes. Stir the mixture into the pot with black beans. Add in the bay leaves and cocoa powder.
• Simmer until the liquid is thick and reduced, and the beans are tender (a little under 2 hours). If you like, you can lightly puree half the beans for a creamier soup/stew.
• Season with salt to taste. Garnish with fresh tomatoes and a sprinkling of herbs such as parsley, if desired. Retrieve bay leaves before eating.