If not using pressure cooker pre-soak beans overnight.If using pressure cooker you may pre-soak beans for several hours but it is not necessary. Sort and rinse beans before soaking or cooking, be sure to check for any foreign material.
Drain and rinse beans if pre-soaked. Set aside. Chop veggies and saute lightly in olive oil. When onion starts to turn translucent (about 2 minutes) add all spices and seasonings, beans, and water or broth.
You can use the lesser amount for pre-soaked beans. Or more than suggested if you want extra liquid to bean ratio in the final product.
Cover with lid and cook:20 minutes for pre-soaked beans in pressure cooker. 40 minutes for dried beans in pressure cooker.Quick release pressure.~6 hrs for pre-soaked beans on stovetop over very low heat.