This takes longer than opening a can of beans and heating them—but—he flavor is worth every minute. Also, once you've done this you'll find it goes very quickly.
1. Pour the beans on to a plate and check for pebbles and lumps of hardened dirt. Discard.
2. Soak beans according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Rinse the beans to remove the excess starch.
4. Set a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat, add the beans, broth, onion, and salt and bring to a boil. Lower the heat to a slow simmer, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook for one-and one-half hours or until soft.
Drain the beans and reserve the cooking liquid in a heat-resistant bowl.
5. Use a hand-held potato masher to mash the beans until smooth but with some texture remaining. Check the consistency and add the reserved cooking liquid if they are too dry. Adjust the salt.
NOTE: Do not mash the beans in a food processor or they will become gooey.
6. Return the skillet to the heat, add oil, and heat to almost smoking. Add the beans and cook until they begin to dry out.
NOTE: If you like your beans crispy, add more oil to the skillet and fry until crisp. Flip with a metal spatula and continue frying.
7. Adjust the salt, remove to a serving bowl, and top with the crumbled cheese.
