Rice & Beans

My Brother Joe's Famous Rice and Beans

This recipe isn't just a dish; it's a trip down memory lane. I remember vividly getting it from my brother Joe back in the 70s. It was a time of bell bottoms, disco, and, of course, incredible home-cooked meals. Joe, bless his soul, always had a knack for creating hearty, flavorful dishes that brought our family together. This Rice and Beans recipe is a prime example.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves. It's the kind of dish that warms your soul on a chilly evening, filling your kitchen with comforting aromas. The bacon adds a smoky richness that perfectly complements the earthy beans and fragrant spices. The slight tang from the red wine vinegar balances the sweetness of the onions and peppers, while the chili powder, cumin, and allspice create a warm, complex spice profile. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even for a busy weeknight.

I’ve made countless variations over the years, adjusting spices and ingredients based on what was available, or sometimes just my mood. Sometimes I’ll add a pinch more chili powder for extra kick; other times I might swap the ham for some leftover chicken or even chorizo. The possibilities are endless! But the core recipe remains the same, a testament to Joe's culinary genius. It's a recipe that’s flexible, adaptable, and consistently delivers a delicious meal. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to those cozy family gatherings, the laughter, and the warmth of shared food and memories.

More than just a recipe, this dish is a tradition. It's a link to my family's history, a culinary heirloom passed down from brother to sister. And that, more than anything, makes it incredibly special. It’s a reminder of simpler times and the enduring power of family and good food. It's a recipe that’s as much about love and memories as it is about the delicious flavors it creates. So gather your ingredients, put on some 70s music, and get ready to be transported to a time of delicious simplicity and family connection – one spoonful at a time.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 bay leaf
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1 can chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 large green pepper, chopped
• 1 cup brown rice, cooked
• 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
• 1/2 package bacon, or to taste
• 3 cloves fresh garlic, peeled and chopped
• 2 cans black beans (Kuner's Southwestern black beans with cumin & chili spices are recommended)
• 1 cup cooked ham

Tips and Variations:

• Feel free to experiment with different types of beans. Kidney beans, pinto beans, or a mix would work well.
• For a spicier dish, add more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper.
• If you don't have ham, you can use leftover chicken, sausage, or even omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian version.
• For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions before serving.

This Rice and Beans recipe is more than just a meal; it's a piece of my family history, a delicious reminder of simpler times and the enduring bond of family. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Step-by-step

• Cook the bacon, reserve drippings, put bacon on paper towel
• In 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings, saute the onion, garlic & green pepper.
• Add flour to make a roux
• Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer for 1 hour to broth is thick and delicious