Instructions
Place the beans in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them by an inch.
Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Lower the heat and let the beans boil gently for .
Remove the pan from the heat, cover the pan and let the beans soak for one hour.
Strain the beans and discard the cooking water.
Add enough additional water to the pan to cover the beans by an inch.
Bring the water to a boil, lower the heat and simmer for one hour.
(Alternatively, cover the beans with water and let them soak for at least .) Drain the beans once more and put them in a saucepan.
Cover with water, bring to a boil, lower the heat and simmer for another hour or until the beans are tender.
Drain the beans and set them aside.
Heat the olive oil in a sauté pan over medium heat.
Add the garlic and cook briefly.
Add the tomatoes and beans, mix and cook over low-medium heat for , stirring occasionally.
Add the basil and cook longer.
Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Stir in a small amount of olive oil or water if the mixture seems too dry.
Makes 4 servings
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