is a traditional Cuban dish served both in homes and in restaurants. It is the Cuban version of rice and beans, a dish found throughout Latin America(except Brazil), the Caribbean, and in the Southern United States. Etymology means 'Moors and Christians'. refers to the black beans, and to the white rice. The name of the dish is a reference to the African Muslim governance of the Iberian Peninsula from the (early 8th century) through the (15th century). Preparation Onions, garlic, and bell pepper are commonly used as a . To this sofrito are added the white rice and pre-boiled black beans, as well as the water that the beans were boiled in. Other seasonings such as oregano and bay leaf are often added to the dish to give additional flavor. are different from simple in that the beans and rice are cooked in the same pot instead of separately. is another term for the dish, but is used more commonly to refer to the similar dish with red beans that is traditionally eaten on the eastern part of the island. See also Cuban cuisine List of legume dishes — the equivalent in Venezuela Rice and beans References Legume dishes Latin American rice dishes Cuban cuisine National dishes