This winter favorite is a truly a labor of love. It was created by Rick and Sarah and is based on their respective family recipes. The recipe is quite flexible, and despite the name it can be ready in just under two hours. Though slow-cooking enhances the flavor and we even prefer it as leftovers. The dish ages that well. While the suggested toppings are optional, cornbread is a must! Serves approximately 10 people.
Wet Ingredients
2 tbs. olive oil
2 medium yellow onion (chopped)
3-4 medium cloves garlic (grated or minced)
2 large red bell peppers (chopped)
15 oz. red kidney beans (cooked)
15 oz. pinto beans (cooked)
15 oz. black beans (cooked)
28 oz. tomatoes (crushed) (“Fire-roasted” suggested)
30 oz. tomatoes (diced)
1 can tomato paste
3 tbs. cayenne pepper sauce
2 tbs. soy sauce
1 medium habañero pepper (pureed)
1 tbs. brown sugar
1 pint (16 oz.) Guinness Draft (substitute stouts or porters)
1 (12-oz.) package textured vegetable protein (TVP) crumbles (Boca brand suggested)
15 oz. whole kernel corn
Dry Ingredients
1/2 tsp. oregano
1/2 tsp. celery salt
1 tbs. cumin
3 bay leaves
2 tbs. chili powder
1/2 tsp. sea salt
1/8 tsp. crushed black pepper
Suggested Toppings
Fresh cilantro (chopped)
Fresh spring onions / scallions (chopped)
Fresh mild onions (chopped)
Sharp cheddar cheese (grated)
In a large stock pot combine the olive oil, onions, garlic, and dry ingredients. Simmer on medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add bell peppers and cook on medium-high heat for 3-5 minutes or until vegetables are tender, adding a small amount of water if necessary.
Add all of the beans, tomatoes and tomato paste. Carefully add the cayenne pepper sauce, soy sauce, and habañero puree. Add the bay leaves, brown sugar, and slowly pour the Guinness into the mixture. Mix thoroughly and reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to simmer slowly for 15 minutes, stirring at least once. Try not to allow the mixture to come to a boil.
Next, add the crumbles and corn and stir slowly and thoroughly. Allow to simmer slowly for 30 minutes, stirring thoroughly every 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as necessary. Serve with toppings of your choice.
