Cooking Corner: Cuban Black Beans and Rice

Written By: Ellen Kleven  |  Posted: Tuesday, February 16th, 2010

If you had asked me a year and a half ago where I'd be today, I probably would have guessed I'd be living in Minneapolis, working under some great chef, and getting myself involved with a local church. I was single, fresh out of college, and was packing for an exciting five-month mission trip to Guyana. Instead of what I had guessed; I married Daniel Kleven in August and moved to Eau Claire. I love the change in plans and now enjoy caring for our home and getting to know Daniel's family, along with my new church family. I grew up in Rhinelander, Wisconsin but have enjoyed getting to know this beautiful city-the biking trail and farmer's market being two of my favorite aspects so far. Even so, I do sometimes miss the familiarity of my small hometown and all of the people I love and grew up with, especially my mother.

I am the third of eleven children and first daughter of this strong and gifted woman. One of her greatest challenges (besides home schooling, making time for Dad, and caring for my youngest brother's special needs) was, and still is, putting supper on the table for so many mouths.

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