HOLISTIC CHEF EDDIE'S TIP OF THE DAY #60

Mexican food is among my top two favorites.  My first is Asian and then Mexican.  The use of chilies and cumin to flavor foods is so appealing to my senses.  Today I am featuring BLACK BEANS AND RICE.  I was a vegan for 18 years and ate this dish often.  As a vegan, putting together Beans and Rice makes for a perfect protein.  One definitely compliments the other.  I love to have lots of color in my foods so this is my take on the traditional recipe.  The use of Toasted Sesame Oil in this dish gives it more depth and a smokey flavor.  As I have said many times before, beans to include Black Beans, are so high in antioxidants and fiber that it is one of many foods available  for people fighting cancer or preventing it.  I definitely give it a thumbs up.  Enjoy!!

                 BLACK BEANS AND RICE

1 cup Long Grain Brown Rice, cooked with 2 cups water
2 Tablespoons Toasted Sesame Oil
1 medium Sweet Onion, diced
1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
1 Yellow Bell Pepper, diced
1 Carrot, diced
1 rib Celery, diced
2 Tablespoons Braggs Liquid Amino
4 cloves Garlic, minced
3 teaspoons Ground Cumin
3 Tablespoons Fresh Cilantro, chopped
1/2 teaspoon Red Wine Vinegar
2 - 14 oz. cans Black Beans
1/2 cup Vegetable Broth (or Chicken Broth)

1)  In a small saucepan add 2 cups of water and 1 cup of Long Grain Brown Rice. Bring to a boil on high heat.  Then cover and cook according to package instructions on simmer, usually 45 minutes.  Do not lift the lid while cooking.  The rice will cook unevenly.
2)  In a large skillet with the Toasted Sesame Oil over medium heat, add the Onion, Bell Peppers, Carrots and Celery.  Cook until the vegetables are soft but firm.  Add the Garlic and stir for 30 seconds.  Do not let the Garlic brown.  
3)  Add the Braggs Liquid Amino, Cumin, Red Wine Vinegar and Black Beans.  Mix well and add the Vegetable Broth.  Simmer for about 10 minutes.  Just before serving stir in the fresh Cilantro and serve over Brown Rice.  Salud!! 

Note:  You can add one Jalapeno Pepper, diced if you like "heat" in your foods when you are cooking the veggies.  If not, add hot sauce if desired.