Vegetarian Quinoa Chili

Vegetarian Quinoa Chili

.ingredients.

1/2 cup quinoa, rinsed

1 cup water

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 jalapeno pepper, diced

1 large carrot, peeled and chopped

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped 

1 red bell pepper, chopped 

1 medium zucchini, chopped 

2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed 

1 (15 ounce) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed 

3 (15 ounce) cans diced tomatoes

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce 

2-3 tablespoons chili powder, depending on your taste (we used 3, if you like it spicier) 

1 tablespoon ground cumin 

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1. Cook Quinoa. Put in saucepan with water, cook on medium heat until water is absorbed (about 15 minutes)

2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over high heat, add onion & saute until tender (about 5 min). Add garlic, jalepeno, carrots, celery, zucchini & peppers - cook until tender (about 10 min).

3. Add beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce and cooked quinoa. Season with chili powder, cumin & salt & pepper. Simmer on low for about 30 minutes, Serve warm.