Fried Rice and Beans (Gallo Pinto)
In this straightforward Costa Rican recipe for gallo pinto, nicely seasoned black beans are combined with sauteed onion and rice and pan-fried until crispy.
Go through beans and pick out any with holes or rocks.
Transfer beans to a large container and cover with several inches of cool water; let soak for at least 1 hour or overnight.
Rinse beans and dump water out.
Transfer to a large pan and cover with fresh water by 2 inches.
Add garlic and bay leaf and bring to a boil.
Reduce to a simmer and cook until tender about 1 hour adding oregano and salt during the last few minutes.
Reserve a few spoons of “caldo” (cooking juice) as it cooks.
Measure 1/2 cup cooked beans for gallo pinto and reserve remaining beans for another use.