This beans & rice recipe is one that my husband convinced me to try a few years ago. The first few times you make it, you'll feel like "sheesh, there are a lot of steps," especially if you're trying to make it during your baby's nap and your toddler's non-nap. But, the more you make it, the easier it gets. I've adapted it from America's Test Kitchen which is typically foolproof. If you're vegetarian, you could adapt this further by using veggie stock and omitting the bacon. (My kids might drop their jaws in shock that anyone would want to "skip the bacon," but you know... you be you.)