Black Beans and Cumin Rice

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup rice
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger
1 teaspoon cumin
salt and pepper to taste (optional)
1 3/4 cups hot water
1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup your choice: diced ham, salad shrimp, diced chicken

Heat the oil in a heavy sauce pan. Add the rice, garlic powder, ginger and cumin; stir to combine and heat until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add hot water and bring to a boil. Add salt and pepper (if using). Cover and reduce heat; simmer for 25 minutes. Stir in black beans and choice of meat; recover and continue cooking on low heat until beans and meat are heated through.