In-a-pinch Black Bean Chili

Over the summer, I decided to order a slow-cooker cookbook after a Barnes and Noble visit where I looked through such a cookbook. I found one that seemed perfect for what I was looking for.

I made a recipe or two from the cookbook over the summer, and recently I pulled it out again to find something I could leave at home all day to cook while Henry and I were at work. We decided that "In-A-Pinch Black Bean Chili" was what we were craving. It was the perfect size for 2 people with just enough for left overs for both of us. This chili does not have any meat, so, if you are vegetarian, this might be something you like. However, it does have chicken broth, but you can substitute vegetable broth.

Cooker: 3 quart
Setting and Cook Time: HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours (I had it on low for 8 hours)

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium-size onion, chopped
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder or 1 teaspoon chipotle chile paste
Two 15-ounce cans black beans, undrained
1/2 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth, canned or homemade
1 1/2 cups medium or hot chunky salsa
Pinch of crumbled dried marjoram
Juice and grated zest of 1 lime
Plain yogurt or sour cream (optional) for serving
Chopped cilantro for serving
Saltine crackers or flour tortillas (optional) for serving

Directions:
In a small saute pan, heat the oil over medium heat and cook the onion until limp. Add the cumin and chili powder, and stir to heat.

Pour beans and their liquid, chicken broth, salsa, and the spicy cooked onions into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

At the end of the cooking time, stir in the marjoram, lime juice, and lime zest. Serve the chili in bowls, topped with a spoonful of yogurt, if desired, lots of cilantro, and some crackers or warm tortillas, if desired.

We used sour cream and thought it was great! I know the lime sounds weird, but the lime really adds an amazing taste. Also, I used Jardine's Medium Texasalsa for our salsa. It really added some great flavor. Hit the grocery store this weekend and make this one day this week while you are work. You will love it!