Chickpea, Quinoa, and White Bean Chili

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Heat the oil in a Dutch oven or other large heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and 1 teaspoon salt and cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.

   Step 2

   Meanwhile, dissolve the tomato paste in 2½ cups water. Stir the chili powder, cumin, and oregano into the onion mixture and cook, stirring, until the spices begin to stick to the bottom of the pot, about 1 minute. Add the tomatoes, beans, chickpeas, chipotles, brown sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and the tomato paste mixture. Increase the heat to medium high and cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches a low boil. Add the quinoa, reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, and cook, stirring occasionally, until the quinoa is tender, about 25 minutes.

   Step 3

   Remove the chili from the heat and adjust the seasonings and chipotle to taste. Add water to thin, if desired. Serve with your favorite toppings.