3-BEAN GOOD LUCK SALAD WITH CUMIN VINAIGRETTE

Steps:

• Place a strainer over a bowl and drain the black beans. Add enough water to the soaking water to measure 6 cups. Drain the red beans and discard the soaking water. Combine the black and red beans, water, all but 1/2 onion, and 3 of the garlic cloves in a large, heavy pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover and simmer 1 hour. Add salt to taste (beans take a lot of salt) and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the beans are tender but intact. Remove and discard the onions. Set a strainer over a bowl and drain. Measure out 1/4 cup of the broth.
• Meanwhile in a separate pot combine the black-eyed peas, remaining 1/2 onion and garlic clove, the bay leaf and 3 cups water. Bring to a boil, add salt to taste, cover, reduce the heat and simmer 45 minutes, or until the beans are tender but intact. Remove and discard the bay leaf and onion. Set a strainer over a bowl and drain. Measure out 1/4 cup of the broth and add to the black and red bean broth.
• In a bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the dressing ingredients. Combine all of the beans in a large bowl and toss with the dressing. Taste and adjust salt. At this point the mixture can be refrigerated, or the salad can be served warm or at room temperature.
• Stir the peppers and cilantro into the beans and serve.