Comfort Food

I love comfort food. Especially in the fall. Don't you? I mean there is just something really wonderful about a bowl-full of something warm and delicious when it's cold and raining outside. Which we have for a good part of the year up here in the Pacific Northwest.

I am so glad that our God gives us good gifts. And we are wise to appreciate the small comforts he gives. They can be life sustaining in times of hardship, trouble, sadness, or depression.

So today I'm bringing you one of my simple comfort dishes. I hope you enjoy it. It's fast, healthy, cheap, and makes a complete protein. And it's perfect for a cold fall day....

Cuban Black Bean and Marinated Rice Soup

Cook about one portion (usually 1 cup dry) white, or brown rice and cool over night or until cold.

Mix: 1/4 c. Olive Oil

 1/8 C. White or cider vinegar
 Salt and Pepper to taste
3 green onions, chopped
Blend well and add to rice, toss gently, and return to refrigerator for at least 30 min.

Soup:
3 cans black beans
1 large onion Chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 Tbls. Cider Vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp ground cumin
3 beef bouillon cubes (other flavors are ok)
2-3 cups water

Saute' onion and garlic in 2tbs olive oil until soft. Add beans including the liquid, and heat through. Add bouillon and water. Heat to boiling and add vinegar, cumin, and if needed, salt and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer briefly (15-30 min).
To serve, fill bowls and add a scoop of the chilled marinated rice to the middle. Warning, this is a very filling soup!


Enjoy!