NOTE: This recipe can be varied when it comes to what spices and added vegetables are on hand.  Basic beans and rice can work with a little salt and pepper.  Other spices that you like can be added to this to make it more flavorful. A cajun spice blend is perfect for rice and beans, for example.  The tomatoes, whether fresh, canned, or spicey Rotels and the canned chilies add some nutrition and flavor to the rice and beans; however, they are optional.  Other things can always be added if desired and on hand such as a small can of chicken, a few shrimp, pieces of cooked fish, even bits of beef jerky. use your imagination to add to this basic foodstuff.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup white rice
• 1 cup chicken stock, chicken bouillion or water
• Cooking oil oil – approximately 2 Tbsp.
• 1 Tsp ground cumin (optional)
• 1 small to medium onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or finely diced
• 1 cup cooked pinto beans
• 1 small can chopped green chilis
• 1 small tomato, diced or small can stewed (or small can Rotel for spice)
• Salt, as needed
• Dash of hot sauce (optional)

Serves 2

1. Cook the rice Cook the white rice as desired. See How to Cook Rice
2.  Cook the aromatics and beans Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a few teaspoons of oil immediately add the cumin (optional spice). Stir the cumin into the oil, let it cook until fragrant (30 seconds), add the garlic and onion and stir till the onion is translucent. Add another small amount of oil, then pour in the beans. Stir and cook for 5-7 minutes, cooking off most of the liquid and letting the beans fry.
3. Add chilies and tomatoes Add the can of chilies and tomatoes, stir, and cook for another few minutes. Salt as needed for flavor, then add in hot sauce (or cayenne) to desired level of spice.
4. Combine and serve When the rice is done, add it to the pan of beans and stir everything together.