The perfect pair: Black Beans and Rice

It was a hot one I didn't want the oven all day, so I decided to make a crock pot meal. Beans are one of my favorite things to cook in the crock pot. They are easier to make in the crock pot (no soaking) than on the stove, they make a lot for a few meals and it is very inexpensive to make. Here is my tried and true recipe. This is also a virtually fat free meal.

Slow Cooker Black Beans and Rice

1 lb. dry black beans (can also use pinto)
1 large onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 Tbsp. crushed garlic (4-6 cloves)
1 qt. low sodium chicken stock
2 Tbsp. chili powder
1 Tbsp. cumin
1/2 tsp. Cayenne
salt (season when beans are soft and cooked through)

1) Rinse beans and place in crock pot.
2) Add bell pepper, onion, garlic, stock, seasonings (except salt) and cook on high 8 hours.
3) When beans are soft, add salt to taste.

Serve with white rice, sour cream and cheddar cheese.