Soak 2 cups of dried beans overnight in enough water to cover the beans plus 2 additional inches of water on top. Once soaked, use a colander to drain and rinse the beans.
Place the beans in a large pot and add 8 cups of cool water and one teaspoon of salt. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover. Simmer until the beans are the desired texture, 1 – 2 hours.
Store refrigerated until ready to use.
Use cooked white beans in soup or cooked red beans in red beans and rice.