Mixed Bean Chilli

I have to tell you, like most mother who juggle the 800 (ok that is an exageration!) but the multiple things that one has to fit in just gets crazier when one has to complete the list with -
800) Cook interesting, flavorful, food that works for both Mommy and Daddy and for the little tykes.

Well, the adapted version of Chilli that I make works pretty well for this and with some really inspired toppings and garnishes makes pretty interesting party food.

To make the process interesting, I use the beans in my pantry, that are a combination of all kinds of Indian beans and lentils - here I have whole dried peas, green chickpeas, black-eyed beans, black beans and small red beans. This time round, I decided to do something that I do not usually do - get some fresh oregano to liven this up!

Mixed Bean Chilli

Makes 10 servings

Ingredients

1 cups of dried mixed beans as described above
2 tbsp salt
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp cumin seeds
2 onions coarsely, chopped
6-8 cloves garlic
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
3/4 cup ground chicken or turkey
3 cups canned or freshly chopped tomatoes
1 green chilli
1 cup chopped cilantro
2 tbsp oregano leaves

For Garnishing

Chopped Scallions
Chopped Green chilies
Chopped Cilantro
Lime Wedges
Tortilla Chips
Grated or Crumbled Cheese
Sour Cream


Method of Preparation

1. Soak the beans overnight and then cook under pressure for 25 minutes with 1 tsp salt. (The beans should be partially cooked.)
2. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the oil and add the ginger, garlic and onion and cook for 15 minutes.
4. Add the ground meat and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add the beans and remaining ingredients with 3 cups water, bring to a boil and simmer for 3 hours.
6. Serve over rice or with cornbread and garnish with the scallions, green chillies and cilantro.
7. Place a few tortilla chips and 1 tsp cheese.
8. Microwave for 40 seconds till the cheese is melted add 1 tsp sour cream and enjoy.

Ps. On a note on my favorite bevarage-red wine. I have recently noticed a fun trend amongst CA wine to have funny, homey labeling almost in an attempt to make wine more everyday. Well, I made the chilli for a Friday Night crowd and served it with a wine from the Doghouse Wines. Do not know much about the wine, the "Checkers Cab" in question was a fun down to earth wine that did appropriate justice to this dish.