In a deep frying pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until some of the fat has been rendered. Do not cook the bacon until crisp.
Lower the heat and add the minced garlic and the cumin. Cook until fragrant, stirring occasionally as needed. Be careful that the garlic does not burn.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the black beans, salsa, and water carefully to avoid splatters from the bacon fat in the pan. Stir well.
Simmer, covered, over medium low to medium heat for 15 minutes. Stir as needed to keep ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Garnish with cilantro as desired.