Ingredients:
400g dry black beans, rinsed (preferably soaked in water overnight)
90g ham, diced
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
1 bay leaf
Olive oil
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper, to taste
Method:
In a pressure cooker, add 4 tbsp of oil. Add the ham and onions and cook until the onions are translucent and ham is lightly browned (about 5 minutes).
Add the garlic and bay leaf and sauté for 1 minute then add in the soaked and drained beans and stir to combine. Now pour in the water then season with 1 tbsp of salt, and black pepper.
Secure the pressure cooker lid and bring to high pressure. Reduce heat to maintain pressure and cook at high pressure for 25 to 30 minutes (depending on the pressure cooker).
Remove from heat and set aside to cool for 5 minutes. Open the lid and release the steam. If the beans are not quite tender, simmer uncovered until they are tender.