Cuban Rice and Beans Recipe

Step 1

Place garlic clove on a cutting board and sprinkle with table salt. Let sit for 3 minutes and mince into a paste with knife. Set aside.

Step 2

Place bacon and olive oil in a large heavy pot. Constantly stir over medium high heat until bacon renders fat and turns golden brown, about 6 min. Add onion, green pepper, and garlic paste into the bacon and stir until vegetables are translucent, about 5 min. Add the chicken bouillon powder, the bay leaf, cumin, oregano, and rice. Stir for 1 minute until well mixed and all the rice is coated in oil.

Step 3

Add the beans with their liquid, the water, and vinegar. Mix to combine. Cover and bring to a boil. Immediately reduce to a simmer, and simmer covered for 45 minutes. Do not peek. Keeping pot covered, let it rest off heat another 10 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork and serve. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions if desired.