Kari’s Black Bean Chili

Serves 8

Ingredients:

4 Tbsp. olive oil                        2 tsp ground cumin                 2 -14 oz cans diced tomatoes

2 onions, chopped                        2 tsp. mild red chili pwdr            salt and pepper

10 garlic cloves, minced            2 red bell peppers, diced            2 -14 oz cans black beans

4 bacon slices, diced                        2 carrots, diced                        1 bunch fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped

1 cup water or chicken stock

Heat oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic and fry for 2 minutes, stirring. Stir in bacon and cook until onions are softened and bacon is cooked. Add cumin and chili powder. Add red bell pepper, carrot and tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add half the cilantro, black beans, and chicken stock. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 30-45 minutes until thickened. Add more water/stock as necessary while cooking. Adjust salt and pepper and add remaining cilantro.

This has won two ward chili contests. It's best served with tortilla chips.