Meatless Mission Chili

2 T Safflower oil

1 x Clove garlic, minced

1 x Green Bell Pepper, chopped

1 x Stalk Celery, chopped

1 x Sm Onion, chopped (1/4 cup)

1 x Carrot, shredded

1 x Med Zucchini, shredded

18 oz Can Tomatoes with juice

15 oz Can Kidney Beans,drained

8 oz Can Tomato sauce (1 cup)

1/4 c Water

1 1/2 t Chili powder, or to taste

1/4 t Hot pepper Sauce, to taste

1 t Basil

1 t Oregano

1/2 t Black Pepper

GARNISH: corn, chopped scallions, shredded Cheddar or Monterey jack cheese, or a combination, optional. In a Dutch oven or 4-5 qt saucepan, heat oil. Saute garlic, green pepper, celery, onion, carrot, and zucchini until crisp/tender, about 3 minutes. As mixture cooks, stir in remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium. Cover and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes. Top each serving with a garnish, if desired. If you wish, set under broiler to melt cheese. VARIATIONS: - add 1/2 cup whole raw cashews - add 1/2 lb firm tofu, cut into 1/2" cubes

~ add 1 cup cooked corn If reheating, add addt`l liquid, such as water, tomato juice, or veg stock