Instructions

1. Spread out the dry red kidney beans on a clean baking pan. Sort through them with your fingers and remove any dirt, debris or shriveled beans. Transfer the beans to a large colander and rinse thoroughly under cold, running water.

2. Place the beans in a large stockpot for soaking. Cover them with 3 cups of water for every 1 cup of dried beans, or 10 cups of water per pound of dried beans. Allow the beans to soak overnight, or for at least eight hours.

3. Drain the soaking water from the dry red kidney beans in the morning. Place them back into the colander and rinse again under cold, running water. This will remove the indigestible carbohydrates present in the beans that cause gas.

4. Transfer the dry red kidney beans to the crock pot and add clean water to a depth of about 2 inches above the top of the beans. Place the lid on the crock pot and set the temperature to low. Cook for 8 to 10 hours, or until the beans are tender.

5. Drain any excess water from the beans once they are fork-tender. Add salt and pepper to taste and any other flavoring your desire. Stir to combine and cook for an additional hour to season. Turn off the heat and serve immediately.