Meatless Mission Chili - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons safflower oil
1 garlic clove, minced
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 onion, chopped (1/4 cup)
1 carrot, shredded
1 medium zucchini, shredded
1 (18 ounce) can tomatoes with juice
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, drained
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce, 1 cup
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
1/4 teaspoon hot pepper sauce, to taste
1 teaspoon basil
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

GARNISH: corn, chopped scallions, shredded Cheddar or Monterey jack cheese, or a combination, optional.
In a Dutch oven or 4-5 qt saucepan, heat oil.
Saute garlic, green pepper, celery, onion, carrot, and zucchini until crisp/tender, about 3 minutes.
As mixture cooks, stir in remaining ingredients.
Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium.
Cover and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Top each serving with a garnish, if desired.
If you wish, set under broiler to melt cheese.
VARIATIONS: - add 1/2 cup whole raw cashews If reheating, add addt'l liquid, such as water, tomato juice, or veg stock.