Black Bean Sausage And Butternut Squash Chili Food

SQUASH-BLACK BEAN CHILI

Steps:

• Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute. Add the chile powders, cumin, coriander, oregano and tomato paste. Cook, stirring, until the vegetables are coated in the spice mixture, about 2 minutes, adding a splash of water if the mixture is dry.
• Add 2 cups water, the tomatoes, beans, bay leaves and 1 teaspoon salt to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and stir in the squash and rutabaga. Partially cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the chili is slightly thickened, 30 to 40 minutes. (Add up to 1/2 cup water if the chili gets too thick.) Remove the bay leaves and season with salt. Serve with assorted toppings and cornbread.

BUTTERNUT SQUASH & BLACK BEAN CHILI

Steps:

• Stovetop: In a large 5 - 6 quart pot, heat oil/water over medium high heat, saute the onion for 5 - 7 minutes. Add the spices, saute for 1 minute more. Add the butternut squash, bell peppers, beans, tomatoes and vegetable broth and optional cocoa, bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes. Will be done when the butternut squash is tender. Taste for flavor. Chili will thick upon cooling.
• Slow Cooker: Place ingredients into your slow-cooker, finishing with the vegetable broth and give a good stir. Cover and cook on low for 6 - 8 hours, or on high for 3 - 4 hours. Taste, and season with additional salt and pepper or seasonings as needed.
• Serve with garnish of choice. Pairs great with my favorite vegan cornbread or jalapeno cornbread muffins!
• Serves 4 - 6
• Keep leftovers stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days. For longer storage, store in the freezer in freezer safe containers for up to 2 - 3 months.