3 slices bacon
1 med. onion, chopped finely
1 med. green pepper, finely chopped
1/4 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. cumin
1 bay leaf
1 (16 oz.) can black beans, including liquid
1 1/2 c. long grain rice, uncooked
2 1/4 c. water
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. vinegar

In large pot, cook bacon until strips are brown and have given off their fat. Remove bacon, but leave the fat. Add onion, green pepper, oregano, cumin and bay leaf to the pot and saute for 5 minutes. Add black beans and liquid.

Mix and saute for 3 minutes. Add water, salt and vinegar. Mix and cook at moderate heat until liquid has been absorbed. Stir in rice, reduce heat to low, cover and cook for 20 minutes.

Makes about 8 cups.