Sort through the dried black beans and discard any stones or damaged beans, then rinse the beans under cold water.
Place a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil; heat until the oil shimmers.
Add the 1 finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3–5 minutes.
Add the 4 cloves minced garlic and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the rinsed 1 pound dried black beans, 2 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, and 1 teaspoon dried oregano; stir to combine.
Pour in 6 cups water (or more as needed) so the beans are covered by about 1–2 inches of liquid.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Partially cover the pot and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender, about 2 hours. Add more water as needed to keep the beans covered.
When the beans are tender, remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaves.
Stir in the juice of 1 lime, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon chili powder (use more if you want it spicier).
Taste and add salt to taste; adjust chili powder or paprika if desired.
Serve warm and garnish with chopped parsley.