Heat oven to 325°F.

Place 1 pound (16 ounces) of dried beans in a 3-quart (or larger) Dutch oven or pot with a tight-fitting lid

Add 2 teaspoons of salt (if desired).

Add enough water to cover beans by about an inch.

Cover pot and cook for 75 minutes.

At this point check beans and stir them. Test one - if tender then remove from oven. If not, put them back in the oven for 15 minute intervals, adding a cup of hot water if they are drying out. They are likely to take 90 to 120 minutes.

Let cool. Drain and rinse beans in a colander.