Quinoa Chili

This is a recipe from Maura at CalorieKing.com. I was looking for a way to use Quinoa for the very first time. In my research, I came upon Dib's "Quinoa-Toasted" and I did this prior to making this recipe. There was certainly no detectable bitterness from my perspective. This is a interesting and tasty grain. The flavors are mild and pleasantly complex but I only used 1/8 tsp cayenne powder. Speaking strictly as a Quinoa newbie, it was a little like eating chili flavored hot cereal but not in a bad way. Very filling and tasty.

• Ready In: 55 mins
• Serves: 4-6
• Yields: 1 1/2 cup servings

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons red curry paste
• 2  teaspoons  ground cumin powder
• 4  cups vegetable broth
• 2⁄3 cup  red quinoa, uncooked
• 1  sweet potato, large, peeled and cubed (about 2 cups)
• 1  green pepper, large, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 2 (15 ounce) cans red kidney beans
• 1⁄2 cup light coconut milk
• 2  cups tomato puree
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
•  fresh ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a 4 quart pot, combine curry paste, cumin and a little broth. Mash the mixture and stir until smooth.
2. Add the remaining broth, quinoa, bell pepper, and sweet potato.
3. Set over high heat and bring to a boil.
4. Cover tightly. Reduce heat to medium low and cook for 10 minutes or until the quinoa begins to absorb the broth.
5. Add the beans, coconut milk, cayenne pepper and tomato puree to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the soup is thickened.
7. Finish with freshly ground black pepper.
8. Suggestion: Serve with fresh hummus and pita or rice chips.