Spiced Black Beans

In a 4 to 5-quart pan, over medium heat, cook onions in oil until limp and lightly browned, stirring often.

Add chicken broth, beans, tomato paste, spices and herbs.

Cover, bring to boil over high heat; reduce to simmer until beans mash easily, about 3 1/2 hours.

(Soaking beans overnight can reduce cooking time to 2 1/2 hours.)

Uncover and boil beans on high until reduced to about 5 1/2 cups, about 30 minutes, stirring to prevent scorching.