For the beans 1. Combine all of the ingredients for the beans, except for the lime or sherry, in a slow cooker, stirring to combine. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours (low for 6-8 hours), until beans are tender. (I wound up cooking my beans for 7 hours on high.) 2. Once the beans are cooked, stir in the lime or sherry. Adjust seasonings if needed.