Black bean pesto

8 oz Dried black beans
      1    Water
      1    Bay leaf
      1    Ham hock
      2    Jalapeno peppers, seeded
      2 cl garlic
           Stems from 1 bunch of
           -cilantro (fresh coriander)
           Salt and freshly ground
           -pepper (optional)
 
  1.  Rinse and drain the beans thoroughly.  Place them in a large saucepan
  or soup kettle, and add all the remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil,
  then reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1-1/2 hours. 2. Remove and
  discard the ham hock and bay leaf.  Using a slotted spoon, transfer the
  bean mixture, in batches, to the bowl of a food processor. Process, adding
  cooking liquid as necessary to form a smooth, thick paste. You will use a
  total of about 1 cup liquid. 3. Transfer the pesto to a bowl and stir in
  the salt and pepper, if needed. Refrigerate, covered, until ready to use.
  This will keep in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Makes 3 cups. Author's
  note:  These beans make a hot and spicy spread.  Also use them in place of
  the red bean paste in the Three Layer Mexican Dip, or serve them in fajitas
  or on nachos.  Black Bean pesto can also be heated through and served as a
  side dish, garnished with sour cream and cilantro. Source: The New Basics
  Cookbook