Black Bean Soup Mf

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup onion and red bell pepper -- finely diced

2 garlic cloves

1 teaspoon ground cumin

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

4 cups chicken broth

--garnish-- 4 ounces shredded or diced smoked ham

sour cream pickled jalapeno or nacho peppers

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Saute 1/2 cup each finely diced onion and red pepper, cover and cook until tender. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 teaspoon ground cumin and saute a few seconds. Add two (15 ounce) cans rinsed and drained black beans and 4 cups chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes to bring flavors together.

If too thick, thin with water, then adjust seasoning. Garnish with 4 ounces finely shredded or diced smoked ham, sour cream and pickled jalapeno or nacho peppers, if you wish.

Busted by Gail Shermeyer <4paws@netrax.net> on Jul 12, 97