Vegetarian Quinoa Chili

How to make Vegetarian Quinoa Chili. This recipe makes 8 servings.

1/2 cup quinoa rinsed
1 cup water
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion chopped
3 cloves garlic minced
1 jalapeno pepper diced
1 large carrot peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks chopped
1 green bell pepper chopped
1 red bell pepper chopped
1 medium zucchini chopped
2 (15 ounce cans) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 (15 ounce can) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
3 (15 ounce cans) diced tomatoes
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
2-3 tablespoons chili powder depending on your taste (we used 3)
1 tablespoon ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional toppings: green onions avocado slices, cheese, sour cream, Greek yogurt, chips, crackers, etc.

In a medium sauce pan, combine your quinoa and water. Cook over medium heat until water is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Set aside.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the onion and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, jalapeño, carrot, celery, peppers, and zucchini. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
Add the black beans, kidney beans, tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir in the cooked quinoa. Season with chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Simmer chili on low for about 30 minutes. Serve warm.
Note: garnish the chili with green onions, avocado slices, cheese, sour cream/Greek yogurt, chips, crackers, if desired. This chili freezes well.