Step 3: Combine and Cook
Transfer the sautéed onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker with the beans. If you skipped sautéing, simply add all the chopped onion, garlic, tomato paste, and spices directly to the pot. Pour in the water or broth and give everything a good stir. The liquid should cover the beans by about an inch.
Step 4: The Long, Slow Simmer
Cover your slow cooker and set it to LOW for 8-10 hours. This long, gentle cooking is what makes the beans incredibly creamy and allows the flavors to meld perfectly. You can cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours, but the LOW setting yields a superior texture.
Step 5: Season and Mash
Once the beans are very tender and the cooking time is complete, stir in the fresh lemon juice. Now, it’s time to create the classic creamy-yet-chunky texture. Use a potato masher or the back of a large spoon to gently mash about one-third to one-half of the beans right in the pot. This will thicken the stew. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
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