Portobello Mushroom Chili

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 med onions, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tsp chili powder, heaping
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste
• 1½ lbs portobello mushrooms, cut in ½" cubes
• 1 can (28 oz.) Italian plum tomatoes, crushed
• 1 can (19 oz.) red kidney beans
• ½ tsp freshly grated black pepper, or to taste
• salt, to taste

Directions

1. In a large heavy pan heat oil and saute onions until translucent.
2. Add garlic, chili powder and cayenne pepper and continue to sauté for 1 minute. Adding spice to the oil intensifies their flavour. If they are added to the liquid their full flavour will not be realized.
3. Add diced portobello mushrooms and sauté until softened (about 10 minutes), stirring frequently.
4. Add tomatoes, kidney beans, and salt. Cover and simmer on a low heat for 40 minutes.
5. Serve topped with grated Cheddar cheese, if desired.