Instructions: * Dont substitute fresh; surprisingly, in this dish, its not as good.

** very approximate, but dont overdo it. several dashes Maggi seasoning

(look near the Worcestershire in most supermarkets, or with the Latino food at Meijers; its a dirt-cheap vegetarian way to add richness to soups and stews).

Put everything but the Maggi, rice and salt in a crockpot (salt makes beans get tender much slower.) Cook on "high" till the beans are tender and the smell is driving you crazy; 20-30 min. before ready to serve, add rice, salt and Maggi.

Makes maybe five or six big bowls.

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