Black Bean Stew

I've had a request for the black bean stew recipe, so here it is:

• 2 13 oz. cans black beans, well rinsed (If I'm feeling really industrious, I take the time to soak and clean the dry beans, but this way is a whole lot quicker.)
• 3 lb.s ground turkey, browned in about 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cups uncooked white rice
• 1 tablespoon salt (more or less to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper (same)
• 8-10 cups water
• optional: 3-5 cups tomato sauce (I can't stand the sight of red food when I'm pregnant, so I am not using this at the present time....Weird, huh?!)

1. Put all ingredients in a large pot on high heat.
2. Bring to a boil, then cover.
3. Lower heat as far as possible, and cook for 25 minutes or so.
4. That's all there is to it!
5. This meal is extremely quick to prepare, filling, and delicious.
6. You can add corn or peppers or mushrooms or onions or whatever sounds good to you...or, as we say at my house, whatever won't hurt you! Serve with a green salad and johnny bread (or corn bread), and you've got a great hearty meal.

Contributed by Sue Crosby