Authentic Cuban Black Beans

When ever I make these delicious black beans,
the aroma makes everyone request a copy of my recipe.
I serve these beans over a bowl of hot rice,
and garnished them with salsa,
a little sour cream, and shredded cheese.
It was also good without the dairy products.
You can also substitute canned, rinsed beans.

Ingredients:
1 pound black beans, washed
1/4 cup olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped
6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
5 cups water
1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste
1 (4 ounce) jar diced pimentos, drained
1 tablespoon vinegar
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 teaspoon black pepper

Directions:
Place beans in a large saucepan with enough water to cover,
and soak 8 hours, or overnight; drain.
Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat,
and saute onion, green bell pepper, and garlic until tender.
Into the onion mixture, stir the drained beans,
water, tomato paste, pimentos, and vinegar.
Season with salt, sugar, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 1 1/2 hours,
stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.