So this is how i make rice and beans.
Rinse 1 cup of dried beans and pick through them looking for weird beans. Soak overnight in water.

The next day…..

cut up whatever veggies you have in the fridge.  Onions, carrots, celery, peppers, etc.  saute. and garlic! must have that.

add in beans and then about two glasses of water.  Add in bayleaves, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, black pepper, splash of hot sauce,  or chilli powder (whatever you feel like and have around).

bring to a boil.  Turn down and simmer for about 2 hours.

Start rice in the last half hour.   Enjoy.