Cuban Black Beans and Rice

Description: I can't remember where I got this recipe. The Cuban surgeon at the hospital where I worked said it was "almost as good" as his mother's!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried black beans
• 6 cups water
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 slice cooked and crumbled bacon
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 2 cups cooked long-grain rice
• chopped green onion, chopped hard boiled eggs,sour cream

Steps:

1. In a large stockpot cover beans with water and boil for 2 minutes.
2. Remove from heat and let stand for one hour.
3. Drain water and cover with fresh water (6 cups).
4. In a skillet saute the onions, bell pepper and garlic in oil for 5 minutes, until tender.
5. Add onion mixture and all remaining ingredients, except the red wine vinegar, to the beans and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to simmer covered for 2 hours, until beans are tender.
7. Add more water if necessary.
8. At the last minute add the red wine vinegar, just before serving.
9. Serve with 2 cups of cooked rice.
10. Top with chopped green onions, chopped hard boiled eggs or sour cream.