Combine the ingredients in a small skillet and simmer over low for about 20 to 30 minutes.

Our comments:  We use this as we experiment with oriental recipes.  It keeps in the refrigerator indefinitely.  You will probably have to go to an Asian market for the fermented black beans.  We like to pack up the kids and go to the shopping center at Jupiter and Walnut in Garland for oriental groceries.  This seems to be one of the nerve centers for our local Chinese community.  There is a Chinese restaurant called Tasty China that we really like.  Being one of the few non-Asians  in the place only adds to the authenticity of the food.  This is at the top of our list of cheap vacations!