For those who want to short-cut the soaking and biling of the beans, canned cooked 'organic' beans of several varieties are in the stores.
Pinto (my favorite), kidney, black, etc.). No tepary yet.

In the crockpot, put in together with other ingredients, or partially cook them first, since over-cooking reduces the pinto and kidney to mush. Cook just long enough to meld the ingredients and flavors of the spices. If meat is part of the recipe, brown it in a skillet or pot and then transfer to crock pot with vegetables and onion; cook a bit then add canned beans and cook on low to blend it all.