Pinto Bean Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons oil or 2 tablespoons margarine
1 medium tomatoes, chopped
1/2 small onion, chopped
1 -3 fresh green chilies, finely chopped or 1 -3 Tabasco sauce, to taste
4 cups pinto beans (canned or cooked, drain but reserve liquid)
2 cups reserved bean liquid
salt or chicken bouillon powder
fresh cilantro

Preparation

Heat oil or margarine in a large saucepan.
Add tomato, onion and green chilies or Tabasco and fry until browned.
In a blender, liquefy the pinto beans in the reserve liquid.
Add bean puree to sauteed vegetables along with enough additional water to thin soup to your desired consistency.
Season to taste with salt or bouillon powder and cilantro.
Cook for 15-20 minutes over low heat to blend flavors.
Garnish with grated cheese, croutons or crispy tortilla strips.
SERVING SUGGESTION: serve with quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches.