Rice and beans

A popular rice and bean dish, Moros y Cristianos [moh-rohs ee kri-stee-Ah-nos] translates to “Moors and Christians” in Spanish. Its name derives from the Moors that invaded Spain.

In keeping with tradition, cook the beans first. Because after that, you want to cook the rice and beans together with some of the bean liquid, along with a sofrito (onion, bell pepper, and garlic), and some pork, in this case, bacon. Cumin and oregano are fairly standard as well. And, it’s the cooking of everything together that marries the flavors and makes this dish what it is.

Popular in Cuba — and many other countries — as a main or side dish, Moros y Cristianos is a feast food. Thus, this is just in time for New Year’s Day when rice and beans are often eaten for luck. For the beans, place beans, garlic, bacon, onion, and bell pepper in Instant Pot; cover with water. Close lid, lock Pot, select “Manual” setting and 20 minutes time.

Pressure cook beans until time is up, then quick release and open Pot. Discard bacon and aromatics, reserve 21/ 2 cups bean liquid, then drain beans (they should offer slight resistance). Wash and dry Instant Pot.

For the rice, rinse rice in a fine-mesh sieve with cold water until water runs clear; drain lightly so rice is slightly damp.

Preheat Instant Pot on “Sauté” setting and “Normal” temperature. Add bacon to Pot and cook until crisp; transfer to a paper-towellined plate and discard all but 2 Tbsp. drippings in Pot. Add onions, bell peppers, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, cumin, salt, coriander, and black pepper to Pot; sauté until onions soften, 3 minutes.

Stir in rice to coat with drippings and spices, then stir in beans and bean liquid.

Close lid, lock Pot, select “Manual” setting and 4 minutes time. Pressure cook rice and beans until time is up, then natural release, 10 minutes. If lid hasn’t unlocked, release excess steam and remove lid. Discard bay leaves.

Stir in cilantro; season rice and beans with lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Top servings with bacon; serve with lime wedges and hot sauce.

Per serving: 403 cal; 4g total fat (1g sat); 7mg chol; 811mg sodium; 78g carb; 11g fiber; 16g protein