Southwestern Stew

This is a GREAT cold weather favorite. Because there's just the two of us I always have extra to freeze for another meal. that is unless a neighbor comes by and takes it. Funny how neighbors just kind of drop by when they smell something cooking - -and there's always something good cookin in my kitchen.

2 lbs.                 hamburger (or ground turkey)
115 oz cans   pinto beans, drained
1 28 oz. can      chopped tomatoes , not drained
1 17 oz. can    kernel corn, drained
1 15 oz can        black beans, drained
1 15 oz can       kidney beans, drained
1 1/2 C             onion, diced
1 C                  picante sauce
1                        bell pepper, diced
3/4 C     water (optional. Often isn't needed)
1 t    cumin
1/2 t                  garlic powder
1/2 t                  pepper
            and salt to taste

Have ready, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream and tortilla chips

Brown beef, bell pepper and onions, breaking up hamburger as it cooks (I use a medium Dutch Oven). Add remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Simmer, covered for about 20 minutes. More is OK.
Dish out and cover with cheese, some crushed tortilla chips and sour cream. Chips can be used to scoop up bites or crushed and mixed in. Me, I like things a little more spicy so before I put cheese on mine, I mix in some Bone Suckin' Sauce Hiccuppin' Hot Sauce.
A little will just brighten it up some. I use more than most people would because I dooo like it hot.

This might have more liquid than you'd like. If so, crush a few corn chips and mix them in to absorb the liquid before serving.

I usually have additional sour cream and chips on the table because we always want a little more.

You might want to include some black beans and/or sliced olives.

Enjoy!