Beans are such an important part of Dominican cuisine that they seem to make an appearance in every meal – next to eggs, alongside rice or even in some desserts. This simple stewed recipe is a great starting point from which you can add various meats or vegetables to enhance the flavor.

Serves 4

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 1 hour

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven and sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 5 minutes. Add in the bay leaves and tomato. Bring to a simmer and add beans and cilantro and just enough water to cover. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and then reduce to simmer. Cover and cook for 1 hour or until beans are tender. Serve alongside Paella.