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Prepare the beans. (Remove ends and snap in half ~ unless they are small)
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Rince beans in a colander with running water 2-3 times
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In a bowl, whisk the tomato paste with the water. (some folks add a dash of sugar to this mixture)
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Place the beans in a large pot with 1 tablespoon olive oil, and turn up the heat.
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Stir the beans for about 5 minutes rapidly, turning the beans continuously.
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Add the tomato paste-water mixture plus 2 pieces of cinnamon.
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Cover and bring to a boil.
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Simmer with lid 'ajar' until all the liquid has evaporated
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While the beans are simmering, add the onions and the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to a pan.
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Saute the onions until golden brown. Add the garlic during the last minute, stirring well.
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Add the salt and the 'seven spices'. Stir to combine.
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Remove the cinnamon stick from the simmered beans; beans should be soft and almost no water left in the pot.
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Add the onions-garlic mixture from the sauté pan.
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Stir gently to combine all.