• 1 grated carrot
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion

Here is a recipe I just invented tonight, out of things I had in the kitchen. It took about 35 - 40 minutes from start to finish.

Place these in a small bowl and top with 4 oz. vegan beer (or water or vegetable stock). Cook in microwave ~4 minutes, until they begin to soften.

Meanwhile, in a 4-qt. pot, place:

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

• 1 can fatfree (vegetarian) refried beans
• 8 oz. vegan beer (can substitute water or vegetable stock)
• 1 1/2 cups water or vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Start over high heat. Stir until beans "dissolve." Then add 1/2 can pinto beans. Mash the remaining beans and add.

Then add:

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

• 3/4 cup frozen spinach
• 3/4 cup frozen corn
• 1 lime, peel removed, cut into small chunks
• 1/2 cup prepared salsa (picante sauce) (I used Arriba brand)
• the microwaved vegetables, above

Reduce to medium heat and simmer 20 - 30 minutes until thickened. (Add water if necessary to thin.)

Top with any combination of the following:

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

• Crushed baked tortilla chips
• Chopped cilantro
• Chopped green onions

Serves: