Rinse beans and cover with water. Bring to a boil and add onion, garlic, bay leaf, and ginger. Reduce heat and cover. Cook on low until beans are just tender. Adjust liquid to about 2 cups (if necessary). Add the rice, and salt & pepper. Cook covered on medium low until rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. (Add more water while this cooks, if necessary) Adjust seasonings. Add hot sauce if desired. Serve with a hearty salad. Makes 4 hearty servings.Number of Servings: 4Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user DLMASTERSON.