In a medium pot chop up bacon in small pieces and brown in pot for about 3 minutes.
Add the chopped onion, stir well and often with the bacon until the onions begin cook about 6 mins.
Add the garlic and jalapenos. Stir constantly so the garlic doesn't burn but does brown and everything becomes aromatic.
Add the canned tomatoes with juices and half cilantro, scrapping the bottom of the pan to get all the stuck on bits up.
Add the undrained beans, black pepper and bay leaves.
Bring to a high simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally.
Once bubbling, reduce heat to low and taste for seasoning. If needed, add salt but just a little at a time.
Cover and keep warm for about 20 minutes. This gives the flavors time to combine together.
