Step 1

In a heavy medium sized pot, heat oil on medium heat.

Step 2

Add onions, peppers and garlic and saute until soft, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 3

Add rice, beans, water, cumin, bay leaf, oregano and salt and pepper. Simmer on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the rice absorbs most of the water and just barely skims the top of the rice.

Step 4

Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer 20 minute (don't peek).

Step 5

Make sure you have a good seal on your cover, the steam cooks the rice. After 20 minutes, shut flame off and let it sit, covered another 5 minutes (don't open the lid).