Brown Rice with Green Beans

The addition of fresh herbs and green beans are a delightful compliment to the earthly flavour of brown rice. This easy to prepare side dish would go well with any bean dish. I served it with Indian Style Spicy Mung Beans.

Spicy Brown Rice with Green Beans and Fresh Herbs

1 cup of brown rice
1 tablespoon of olive oil
3 scallions, finely chopped
10 - 15 green beans, cut into small pieces
1 teaspoon of fresh oregano
1 tablespoon of finely chopped fresh chives
1 teaspoon of finely chopped fresh thyme
2 - 3 teaspoons finely chopped hot red or green chilies
1 teaspoon of ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon of cayenne
1/2 - 1 teaspoon of sea salt
juice from one small lemon

Soak the rice overnight in 2 cups of water.

Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. When hot, add the scallions and fry for a couple of minutes. Next add the green beans, fresh herbs, chopped chilies, cumin and cayenne. Stir for a minute. Next add the rice and its soaking liquid, salt and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, cover and turn the heat to very low and cook for 35 - 40 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from the heat and let sit for 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.