BLACK BEAN SOUP

1 lb. dried black beans

1 1/2 t. salt

2 t. cumin

1 T. crushed garlic

1/4 c. olive oil

1 t. dried orEgano or 2 t. fresh

1/2 med. green pepper chopped very fine

1 med onion chopped very fine

2 bay leaves

Wash beans and add 2 1/2 quarts water. Soak several hours or overnight.  Bring to boil in water soaked in. Add balance of ingredients  and simmer covered for three hours. Remove bay leaves.  If you like a thicker soup, remove lid and boil to reduce liquid.  Serve with white or brown rice.  We like chopped onion sprinkle over the serving bowl.