Spicy Black Beans and Con Gris

Ok. So we are going to cover two recipes. Spicy Black Beans, a super yummy, easy dish that takes no time, and Con Gris a Cuban classic, that is easy, and tasty.
Spicy Black Beans
2 cans of Black Beans (drained and rinsed)
1-2 serrano chiles
1/2 onion diced
1/4 c cilantro chopped
16 oz of chicken or vegetable stock
Directions- If you want the beans to be not too spicy, use only one serrano and leave it whole, medium spicy, cut it in half and remove all the seeds and white pith from inside, Med-hot use 2 serranos sliced, and cleaned (all the seeds and white pith) then dice, Hot (this will not melt the roof of your mouth, but it will be a pleasant heat for those of us that like it) use 2 serranos and either slice, or dice leaving in the seeds. Saute' onions in 1 tbs of olive oil. In a baking dish (ceramic, not metal) combine all ingredients. Add salt and pepper to taste, bake 350* for 20 -30 minutes. Less time in the oven means more sauce, more time means less sauce and richer taste.
Con Gris
2 cans black beans (drained, reserve liquid)
1 1/2 c rice (white or brown)
2 Tbs minced garlic
1/2 c diced onion
salt, pepper
water or chicken stock
In a large pot saute' garlic and onion in 1 Tbs of olive oil. Add water to reserved bean liquid to bring up to three cups. Add beans and rice to onions and garlic. Add water and bean liquid. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to a low simmer and cover and cook for the time recommended on the rice package. White it is usually 20-30 minutes, Brown it is 30-45 minutes. The rice will look grey and the beans will have flavored all of it. VERRRRYYYYY GOOODDD. This is really good as a side dish to steak, carne asada, grilled chicken or even fish. Optional toppings include, queso fresco, or shredded cheddar, sour cream, and cilantro. This only gets better as leftovers and is easily frozen. To use after freezing allow to defrost in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave with a wet paper towel over. Hubby loves it the next morning, reheat about 1/2-1 c of con gris and fry or poach (I prefer poached) One or two eggs, place eggs over the top and mix it all up, (so the egg yolk mixes in and you get a little of everything in each bite). YUMMY especially in the winter.
Love Sara