Black Bean Soup

2 T Olive Oil
1 C Bacon, diced
1 1/2 C Yellow Onion, diced
1 C Red Bell Pepper, diced
1 T Garlic, chopped
1 tsp Dry Thyme
1 T Dry Oregano
1/4 tsp Jalapeno, minced
3 C Black Beans
6 quarts Chicken Stock or Bouillon
1/4 C Cilantro, chopped
2 each Bay Leaves
1 T Salt
1/2 T White Pepper

In hot soup or sauce pot, render bacon until crisp. Add onions, peppers, garlic, jalapeno and dry herbs. Sweat until onions are translucent and ingredients are tender. Add black beans, chicken stock, bay leaves and cilantro. Simmer until soup consistency and beans are soft. Season with salt and pepper. Ready to serve.

Garnish with sour cream, chopped bacon and fried tortilla strips.

Note: If soup is thick before beans are soft, add some additional stock. (This could vary depending on how rapid the simmer is).

Yield: 1/2 Gallon

Recipe by: Enchantment Resort