Congri

Congri is a traditional Cuban dish made with black beans and rice, cooked together with spices and seasonings.

Ingredients - Serves 6

Rinse the black beans and soak them in water overnight. Drain before using.
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the soaked black beans, white rice, cumin, oregano, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and water to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans and rice are cooked and tender.
Remove the bay leaf from the pot and discard. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
Serve hot as a main dish or as a side dish with grilled meats or vegetables.
Garnish with additional chopped cilantro, if desired.