While beans soften, make a sofrito by sauteeing on medium high heat, in 5 tblsp olive oil, 1 medium onion, 4 garlic cloves, & 8 to 10 Cachucha peppers (a caribeean cousin of
Habenero, citrus flavor without the heat — I've never found and use 2 - 4 Poblanos or Anaheims intead — Jaffrey suggests simmering some lemongrass with beans to replace citrus notes — I add lime juice
at end) all finely diced.