Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot with 2 litres of cold water.

Bring to the boil then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 2 minutes.

Remove pot from heat, cover and stand for 1 hour. (or skip this process and soak the beans overnight in cold water)

Drain and rinse beans.

Return beans to the pot and cover with 2 litres of fresh, cold water.

Bring to the boil then simmer for about 1 1/2 hours or until the beans are tender.

Drain the beans and reserve the liquid. Set aside.

In the same pot, cook the bacon, garlic and onion in the oil until the onion is lightly browned.

Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves.

Add in the balsamic vinegar, fish sauce, cider vinegar, pepper, salt, stock, drained beans and 2 cups of the bean cooking liquid.

Cover and bake at 150oC for around 2 - 2 1/2 hours or until the sauce is the desired consistency.