Crock pot works for me.. about 5 hrs for the northern beans I used.. but I did soak mine over night. I will have to try just throwing them in. The last great northern I did, I have my fare-share of RG's , I added granulated garlic , cayenne pepper, bay , oregano, and salt. The end liquor was fabulous for my Italian soup. I'll check it out Guy.. Oh since I'm here.. I haven't had any luck cooking Steve's Scarlet Runner Beans.. they always turn out hard ? Paully