Step 1

In 3 1/2- to 6-quart slow cooker, mix all ingredients except rice.

Step 2

Cover; cook on High heat setting 6 to 8 hours.

Step 3

Remove bay leaves. Serve beans over rice. Note: This recipe was tested in slow cookers with heating elements in the side and bottom of the cooker, not in cookers that stand only on a heated base. For slow cookers with just a heated base, follow the manufacturer’s directions for layering ingredients and choosing a temperature.