To a medium saucepan, add 4 tbsp cooking fat over medium heat.
Add onions and salt, cooking until soft and translucent, approximately 5 min.
Add garlic, smoked paprika, and bay leaf, cooking for 30s.
Add the beans and liquid, and bring to a simmer.
Cook 2-3 hours at a gentle simmer.
When beans begin to soften, smash against the side of the saucepan with a
wooden spoon. The beans will gradually break apart. I usually smash until the
beans are about 25% solid.