We were pretty lucky with Hurricane Irene, but we still drowned ourselves in comfort food while we waited out the storm. After consuming pizza dip, chips and salsa, peach rings, dried mango, eggs and toast, we decided we needed a dinner meal. This is really simple to put together, has a slight kick, and will help you forget about the giant looming crane that is outside your window during a hurricane. However, the giant gaping holes of the 2nd avenue subway and the debris to match? That you may need some wine for.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cloves of garlic minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 teaspoons cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons oregano
- 2 teaspoons of onion powder
- 2 cups of rice
- 2 cans of Rotel (or if you like it less spicy, one can of Rotel and one can of plain old diced tomatoes)
- 2 cans of Black beans (15 ounces)
Drain the black beans and tomatoes, reserve the liquid.
Add enough water or chicken broth until you hit 4 cups. Heat the oil in a large cast iron pan until shimmery.
Add the garlic, and cook for 2 minutes. Add in the spices, and cook stirring constantly for a minute.
Add the rice and toast for about 30 seconds, then add the liquid and tomatoes.
Bring to a boil, then cover and cook for about 20 minutes. Add the beans and cook until the rice is cooked through and fluffy. Remove the bay leaves and serve.
Preferably to some hungry Irene survivors.
