Add beans, onion, garlic, and cinnamon sticks to a dutch oven and cover with water by about 3 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Continue to simmer for 1-2 hours, until the beans are tender.
Once the beans are mostly cooked but still slightly toothy, remove the onion, garlic, and cinnamon sticks, then add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine. Season with salt, and simmer for a few more minutes until the beans are perfectly cooked. Be careful not to overcook the beans.
Notes
The “bacon salt” in the recipe is overcooked (not burnt!) crumbled bacon that all the fat has rendered off. This concentrates the flavor. If you do not eat meat, just omit this ingredient.