Down Home Vegetable Chili

8 Servings

1 T oil
1 can (13 3/4 oz) beef broth
4 lg cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 c to 2 cups water
1 lg spanish onion, minced
2 T brown sugar
2 md carrots, chopped
2 T chili powder
1 md zucchini, chopped
2 t cumin, Ground
1 can (15 1/2 oz) red kidney
1 t oregano beans, Dried drained, rinsed
1 t salt coarsely, Chopped
1/2 c bulgur wheat
1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes
1/2 c fresh (or corn kernels) Frozen liqui, d reserved, tomato
1 light sour cream or coarsely chopp, ed low-fat
1 can (6 oz) low-salt
1 thin green onions, Sliced tomato pa, ste
1 thin cilantro leaves, Sliced

1. Heat oil in 3-quart non-aluminum saucepan over medium-high heat.
Add garlic, onion, carrots and 1/2 cup of the zucchini. Cook, stirring often, until onion is softened, about 4 minutes.
Add kidney beans, tomatoes and their liquid, tomato paste, beef broth, 1 1/2 cups water, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, oregano and salt.
Stir until combined. Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, 40 minutes.

2.
Add remaining zucchini, bulgur wheat and corn kernels. Simmer 10 minutes more.
Add remaining 1/2 cup water as necessary. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot. Pass light sour cream or low-fat yogurt, sliced green onions and cilantro leaves separately. Note: This is a highly flavorful, crunchy and substantial chili. As with most chilis, it's best made at least a day ahead so the flavors fully develop. Can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated or frozen as long as 3 months. Reheat gently, adjusting water and seasoning as needed.