Vegetable Chili with Cornbread

Ingredients

• Kidney beans 1 cup
• Black beans 1 cup
• Tomato sauce 1 cup
• Mixed vegetables (onion, peppers) 1 cup
• Olive oil 1 tablespoon
• Cornbread 1 piece

Method

1. Prepare the vegetables. Wash and chop the mixed vegetables. If using onion and peppers, peel and dice the onion, and core and chop the peppers into small pieces.
   Tip: Use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board to make chopping easier and safer.
2. Heat olive oil. Place a medium-sized pot or deep pan on the stove over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm for about 1 minute.
   Tip: You can test if the oil is hot enough by adding a small piece of vegetable; it should sizzle gently.
3. Sauté vegetables. Add the chopped onion and peppers to the hot oil. Stir frequently and cook until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
   Tip: Stir often to prevent burning and to cook evenly.
4. Add beans and tomato sauce. Add the drained and rinsed kidney beans and black beans to the pot. Pour in 1 cup of tomato sauce. Stir everything together.
   Tip: Make sure beans are well rinsed to reduce excess salt and improve flavor.
5. Simmer the chili. Reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer gently for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and allow flavors to blend.
   Tip: Cover the pot partially with a lid to prevent splatters but allow some steam to escape.
6. Heat the cornbread. While the chili simmers, heat the cornbread according to package instructions or warm your homemade cornbread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
   Tip: Warming the cornbread just before serving keeps it moist and fresh.
7. Serve. Spoon the hot vegetable chili into bowls and serve with a piece of warm cornbread on the side.
   Tip: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Pro tips

• Use canned beans to save time, but rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
• Simmering the chili slowly helps develop deeper flavors.
• If you want extra heat, add chili powder or fresh chopped chili peppers during the sauté step.