Black Bean and Chocolate Chili

I know the title seems somewhat bizarre, but the slight "hint" of semi-sweet chocolate gives this vegetarian chili a real depth of flavor. It reminds me somewhat of a sweet, yet spicy mole sauce. This recipe was adapted from one I found in the "Moosewood Restaurant Celebrates" cookbook.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 1 1⁄2 cups  chopped onions
• 4  garlic cloves, minced
• 1  stalk celery, sliced
• 1 -2  jalapeno chile, minced
• 1  tablespoon cumin
• 2  teaspoons oregano
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1  pinch ground cloves
• 1  teaspoon ground coriander
• 1  tablespoon chili powder
• 1⁄2 teaspoon ground black pepper, to taste
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt, to taste
• 1 1⁄2 cups  chopped bell peppers (red and green are nice)
• 2 (14 1/2ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1  tablespoon fresh lime juice (optional)
• 1  tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 1⁄2 ounces  semisweet chocolate (about 1/4 cup)
•  vegan cheddar cheese or  tofu sour cream or  scallion, for serving

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and sauté until onions become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the celery and chile, cover and cook for another five minutes more.
3. Reduce the heat and stir in spices, (cumin, oregano, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, chili powder, black pepper, salt) along with the bell peppers. Cover again and cook for another five minutes. Stir often to keep the spices from burning. If the pan gets too dry add a little liquid from the diced tomatoes, or some water.
4. Next, add the black beans, tomatoes, lime juice (if using) and soy sauce. Let the chili simmer on low for 5 to 10 minutes, until it thickens slightly and flavors combine.
5. Stir in the chocolate. When chocolate has melted, taste to adjust the salt and pepper. Serve with topping of your choice. I like a bit of vegan cheese, sour "cream" and scallions.
6. Chili can also makes a great filling to serve wrapped in flour tortillas, or in taco shells if you prefer.