Cold weather calls for hot Chili...

With the anticipation of cooler weather also comes the excitement of things such as the leaves changing colors, the arrival of football season, and being able to bust out those sweaters and boots.  But what I get most excited about (besides the sweaters and boots), are homemade chili and soups.  How great it is to come in from the cool weather, get bundled up in a cozy blanket, and enjoy a delicious bowl of savory soup or chili? A few days ago, as the rain brought cooler weather, I decided to get a start on soup season.  I made a pot of three bean chili.  I didn't even follow a recipe! It turned out so great.  I've shared the recipe with my mom, and she cooked it and absolutely loved it.  Check it out, it's so easy to make.

Three Bean Chili:

What you will need:


1 Red pepper, diced
1/2 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, chopped
1  can black beans, rinsed and drained
1  can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1  can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
1  can corn, rinsed and drained
1  can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon cumin
1 tablespoon lime juice
salt and pepper, to taste
2 to 3 cups of water

1. In a large pot, saute the pepper, onion, and garlic in the olive oil until the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add 2 to 3 cups of water (depending on how thick you want it) and bring to a boil.
3. Add the beans, corn, tomatoes (plus their juice), chili powder, cumin, lime juice, salt, and pepper.  Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes. 

For you meat eaters, just add browned beef seasoned in the chili powder and cumin.  I added cubed tofu marinated in chili powder, cumin, and lime juice.  Yum!