Black Bean Soup

Main Ingredients:

• 1/2 pound Hormel® Black Label® Bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 (16-ounce) jar CHI-CHI'S™ Smooth & Spicy Picante Sauce Mild
• 1 1/4 cups water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Herb-Ox® Chicken Instant Powder
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. 1

   In large saucepan, cook bacon, celery, onion and garlic over medium heat, stirring occasionally, 12 to 15 minutes or until bacon is crisp; drain.

2. 2

   Add beans, picante sauce, water, bouillon, red pepper flakes and black pepper to saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer, stirring occasionally, 25 to 30 minutes.

3. 3

   Stir cilantro into soup. Serve with dollops of sour cream, if desired.

Notes:

1. Makes 6 cups.