If using fresh onion and or garlic, sautee in the bottom of the pot with a little bit of oil at the beginning.
Place beans, tomatoes, and spices in bowl, except for chiles. mash with fork or potato masher, add liquid, either apple juice or water till it reaches a consistency of a thick paste, but is still thin enough to serve. add chile peppers/powder till it tastes good to you. I tend to like it spicy.