Rice and Beans

I have been dreaming lately in rice and beans but haven't ate any in a long time.  So, I made some.  But of course I must veggie everything up so here is what I did.  And don't be scared of any of this, its so freaking easy!!

Kristie's Rice & Beans with Caramelized Onions, Zucchini, and Mushroom

1 cup brown rice
2 1/2 cups water
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatos (home made - thanks Dad!!), with juice

2 white onion, thinly diced
2 tbsp grapesead oil (but use any oil you wish)
1/2 tbsp salt

spray oil
3 zucchini, thinly diced
1 container mushrooms, thinly sliced
6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
fajita seasoning, to taste (I used 2-3 tbsps)

6 green onions, thinly sliced
fresh cilantro
lime (optional)

In a rice cooker, cook the brown rice, garlic, and water.  When it is about 3/4 of the way done add the black beans and diced tomatos

While the rice is cooking, over medium heat add grapeseed oil, onion, and salt to a cast iron skillet.  Let it sweat, stirring regularly until it caramelizes.  Set aside.

Using the same cast iron skillet, spray with oil and add zucchini, mushrooms and garlic.  Sprinkle fajita seasoning.  Cook over medium heat until just barely cooked.  Take off the heat.

To assemble, put the rice and beans on the bottom of your bowl.  Add a good handful of cilantro and mix together.  Add a squeeze lime if you would like.  Top with zucchini mixture, caramelized onions, green onions and more cilantro.  Add fresh cracked pepper.

This is one of the best things I have made in a long time.  So full of amazing flavor, you will just love it. Enjoy!!