Instructions

1. 1
   Soak dry black beans and salted meats separately in water overnight. Drain before cooking.
2. 2
   In a very large heavy pot, combine beans, meats, bay leaves, and the whole orange. Cover completely with water.
3. 3
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours until beans are tender.
4. 4
   In a skillet, fry bacon, then cook chopped onions and garlic until translucent.
5. 5
   Ladle a cup of beans from the main pot into the skillet, mash them to create a paste, and pour back into the stew to thicken it.
6. 6
   Simmer uncovered for another 20 minutes. Discard orange and serve with rice.