If using dried beans, plan on soaking the beans overnight and allow about two hours to cook the beans. I used a blend of beans that also included lentils and peas.

1/4 cup olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, diced

6 cloves garlic, minced

1 1/2 tablespoon chili powder

1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano

1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups water

6 cups cooked beans, lentils and peas

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

Heat oil in a large soup pot.  Add onion, red bell pepper and garlic.  Saute until the vegetables are soft.  Add the chili powder, oregano, cumin and salt; stir over heat for 2 minutes. Stir in the water, cooked beans and tomatoes. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the chili thickens and the flavors blend, about 30 minutes.

Makes 8-10 servings.