Soak
the beans overnight in the tap water, or bring them to a boil, cover
them and let them soak for an hour in the boiling water. After
soaking, simmer the beans for about an hour, or until they are almost
tender. Add the salt, pepper and margarine or butter.
Simmer the beans for another half hour or so, cooking until they are
tender, but not mushy, and the broth is somewhat thickened.
This may be served as a main dish with Hoe Cakes.
It can also be served as a side dish with a roasted chicken.
It may be doubled to serve large crowds. This is a traditional
southern dish, it is cheap and quite delicious.
