Vegetarian Bean Chili

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, halved lengthwise and sliced 1 red, green or yellow pepper, chopped
• 1 teaspoon each chili powder, ground cumin, dried oregano
• 3 cups cooked red, black or kidney beans
• 1 cup spring water or vegetables stock
• 2 tablespoons umeboshi vinegar or organic tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a large heavy pan. Add onion and garlic and sauté until the onion starts to brown.

2. Add the rest of the vegetables, chili powder, cumin and oregano. Sauté for 5 minutes.

3. Slowly add the rest of the ingredients. Cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes.

4. Adjust the seasonings and serve. Variations: Add other vegetables like celery, zucchini or summer squash. Skip the chili powder, use ginger instead to create a different taste. Add fresh or frozen corn and you have a grain-bean combination in one pot. Add cooked brown rice for a tasty rice and bean dish.