Cuban Black Beans and Rice

INGREDIENTS

• 1 (15-ounce) can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or other oil
• 1/2 cup green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup onion, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 (16-ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained and cut into small chunks
• 1/2 pound cooked ham, coarsely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano leaves
• 1/8 teaspoon ground red pepper (cayenne0
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups rice (cooked and hot)

PREPARATION

1. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add green pepper, onion, and garlic; cook and stir until crisp-tender.
3. Stir in beans, tomatoes, ham oregano, ground red pepper, and bay leaf; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Remove bay leaf.
5. Place rice on large platter and cover with bean mixture.
6. Garnish with a sprig of parsley or mint. Serve hot.