With the recent turn in the weather, the craving for a hearty stew to offset the grey crisp chill of Chicago fall hit me hard this week. This recipe for one-pot Chipotle Spinach Bean Stew is a super alternative to the typical vegetarian bean chili. Heavy chunks of cooked spinach leaves folded into hearty barley and white beans are enhanced by the smoky chipotle tomato broth, and topped with a refreshing lime juice and cilantro garnish. The flavors marinate well overnight so it’s even better as leftovers!

CHIPOTLE SPINACH BEAN STEW
2 x 14oz oz cans small white beans
9 oz spinach leaves (one bag)
2 x 14 oz cans of diced tomatoes
1/2 cup bulgur 
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, diced
2 cups water 
1 Tbsp fresh oregano leaves
1 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 canned chipolte, diced with its juices added to broth 
Juice of 2 limes
1 bunch cilantro 
2 Tbs extra virgin olive oil
salt & pepper

Heat some olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, paprika and cumin and cook until golden and soft. Add diced tomatoes, bulgur, spinach and water. Add oregano and crushed chipolte. Bring to boil. Cook on medium heat until bulgur is cooked and liquid has thickened, anout 15 minutes. Rinse and drain the beans. Add to stew, combine and cook for another 5 mins or so until the beans are hot. Garnish with fresh lime juice squeeze and cilantro. 
Everett and Asher also had their first dentist and eye appointments this weekend to kick off the fall!