Savory Black Beans and Rice

This is out of a book I have called "Secrets of Feeding a Healthy Family" -- yes,  you can make healthy meals with bacon!

Ingredients:

2 cans (15 oz.) black beans, drained

¼ lb. (4 slices) bacon, cut into 1/2-inch strips

½ to 1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

¾ tsp dried leaf oregano

½ tsp dried rosemary, crushed

¼ tsp dried thyme

¼ tsp black pepper

1 tsp salt

Empty the beans into a medium saucepan. Cook the bacon in a skillet until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to move the bacon into the beans. Use the bacon fat (really! This is what makes it filling and flavorful!) to cook the onion and garlic over medium heat until the onion is clear. Measure the spices into the beans, stir them up, then simmer about ½ an hour to blend the flavors. Serve over hot cooked rice. Dress it up with a dollop of sour cream and serve with orange rounds on the side. Also delicious with a squeeze of fresh lime and chunks of avocado.