Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped small
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced into thin half moons
• 3 stalks celery, chopped small
• 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped small
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 large red pepper, cored, seeded, and chopped small
• 1 (15 ounce) can chopped tomatoes, undrained or 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 3 cups green cabbage, shredded
• 2 (15 ounce) cans black beans, undrained
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried cilantro or 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 dash cayenne pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 dash cinnamon
• 1 dash dried thyme
• 5 -6 cups water

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, carrot, celery and potatoes and cook, stirring, over medium heat for 10 minutes, till they begin to soften. Add garlic and red pepper, and cook 3 more minutes.

2. Add tomatoes, cabbage, black beans and spices. Add water to cover, mix well and bring to a boil.

3. Lower the heat, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheddar cheese.