Simmer beans in water till soft. Saute onions, pepper, celery & carrots in olive oil til the onions turn golden brown. Add garlic, cumin, vinegar & soy sauce. Cook, stirring for 3 minutes. Drain about 1/2 c water from beans & add it to the saute. Cook over a low heat for 30 minutes. Combine vegetables with beans. Cook for another 30 minutes, adding more water if necessary. Joel Rapp, "Mother Nature's Vegetarian Feasts"