Vegetarian Sierra Stew

Ingredients

1 cup kidney beans
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion thinly
4 clov garlic
1 green bell pepper
1 cup green cabbage
1/2 cup russet potatoes unpeeled
1 package tomatoes
16 including liquid
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 cup brown rice
4 cups water

Instructions

Optional garnishes: 1/4 cup jalapenoor pepper-flavored monterey jack cheese, salsa and/or low-fat sour cream or nonfat yogurt. Wash kidney beans well, removing any pebbles or misshapen beans. Place in a large bowl and cover with cold water. Let beans soak overnight, then drain the water. Rinse well and set aside. In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat oil and saute onion and garlic until onion is soft, about 3 to 5 minutes. Add bell pepper, cabbage, potatoes, tomatoes with liquid, chili powder and cumin. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 3 minutes. Add rice, water or broth and beans. Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours on stovetop or 6 hours in a slow cooker, until stew is thick and beans and rice are tender. Season with salt-free seasoning and pepper. Serve and top with garnishes, if desired. Serves 6 to 8.