Rice & beans: 6 new ways to savor the staples

These staple ingredients are a favorite combination—and essential source of calories—in many cultures around the world. Not only are they a nutritious duo, but rice and beans have great potential to be vital crops in a regenerative farming future. Beans and other legumes are unique in that they have the ability to add nitrogen back into the soil. And while rice is notoriously a water-intensive crop, many rice-growing communities are adopting new farming practices, such as those supported in Lotus Foods’ More Crop Per Drop program, which reduces water use while alleviating poverty and improving food security. There are many ways to enjoy rice and beans. Here’s a mix of classic and innovative combos.