Rice and Beans

I have been meaning to post this recipe forever! Finally a minute to do it. :) For my family's info, this is the recipe I was eating at the family reunion that everyone tried and liked. Probably my most frequently requested recipe! Ok here it is:

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (I like one yellow and one orange)
2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp cayenne
1 tsp salt
2-3 tsp safflower oil
1 onion, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2/3 cup mung beans
1 1/3 cups pearled barley
2 1/2 cups water
1/2 cup sliced roasted red pepper
2 Tbsp white vinegar
hot sauce or salsa
1 Tbsp fresh oregano, minced
1/4 tsp pepper

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place the sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, paprika, cayenne, half the oil, and half the salt in a large bowl. Toss to coat the sweet potatoes. Coat a large baking sheet with cooking spray. Spread the potatoes in an even layer on the baking sheet, and bake 20-25 minutes.

Heat the remaining oil in a large skillet. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the beans, barley, water, and remaining salt. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, and cook 40-45 minutes, or until the rice and beans are tender. Stir in red pepper, vinegar, oregano, and pepper. Stir in the sweet potatoes, and serve immediately. Serve with hot sauce or salsa.