Mixed bean goulash recipe

This recipe has been adapted from the book, The Vegetarian Gourmet's Easy International Recipes by Bobbie Hinman. It's the first recipe I have tried from the book. I have been trying to cook without recipes lately but must say I am glad I checked this one out. It has provided great nourishment and comfort in the cold weather and it keeps well.

Lately I have been challenging my friends and family to eat meatless on Mondays. To provide some support and motivation I am sharing a vegetarian recipe. It can be vegan if you leave out the yogurt garnish, which is totally doable.

This recipe is based on a Hungarian stew and is thick, rich, and delish! For best flavor try to buy your ingredients locally and organically when you can.

Makes 8 servings (or lots if you eat little portions)

2 TBSP olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 large onion, thinly sliced (or 2 cups of onion)
1 large green pepper, thinly sliced (or 1 cup)
2 cups of organic vegetable broth
1-7 oz. can of tomato paste--organic if possible
1 can of kidney beans
1 can of white beans (cannellini)
1 can of pinto beans
2 medium potatoes, unpeeled, cut into 1/2 inch cubes (or 1 pound)
2.5 TBSP paprika (or more if you like)
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp sea salt and cumin
1/4 tsp pepper
cayenne pepper (to taste, for those who want more spice--I probably put in at least 1/2 tsp.)
1 cup of whole fat greek yogurt
noodles or rice depending on your mood :)

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic for one minute, then add onions and bell pepper. Stir frequently, for about 5 minutes. Add small amounts of water to mixture if necessary to prevent from sticking. Then add remaining ingredients (EXCEPT the yogurt!)

Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil and leave on medium heat, cover and simmer for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender. Stir several times while cooking.

Serve over brown rice or noodles (egg noodles are good) and top each serving with 2 TBSP of yogurt or in any amount desired, I usually just put a good spoonful on top of the goulash. You can also just add grated parmesan cheese over the top if you are looking for that extra flavor.

Each serving provides approximately 235 calories, 13 g of protein, 2 g of fat, 0 sat. fat, 43 g carbohydrates, 521 mg sodium and 1 mg of cholesterol.