Ham and Black Bean Soup

Spicy, ham and black bean chili-style soup, served topped with Monterey Jack cheese.

Recipe Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large red or green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, undrained
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 cup chopped ham
2 teaspoons vegetable base or bouillon granules
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 drops hot pepper sauce
Shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Cooking Directions:

1. Heat oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper and garlic; cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until tender.
2. Stir in beans and juice, tomato sauce, ham, vegetable base, vinegar, chili powder, cumin and hot pepper sauce; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes or until flavors are blended. Sprinkle with cheese before serving.

Makes 4 servings.