Soak the beans overnight- drain and put them in a kettle with 3 C fresh water; bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover the pan, and simmer for 30 minutes. Add the salt, onion, garlic, celery, and bay leaf. Simmer 2 hours or longer. Add water if the mixture gets too thick. The beans will be tender in 2 hours, but longer simmering makes the flavor richer.
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