Growing up, I always heard that you should eat ham and beans for New’s Years Day because it meant good luck.  But I don’t eat ham (well, maybe I do, that’s a story for another day) so I’m relying on beans to work their magic today.  After all, after the last year I’ve had, I could use all the luck in the world.  Beans are lucky, so they say, because they resemble coins and therefore promote fortune and wealth.  Similarly, cooked greens are also considered good luck because they resemble folded money.  Chicken, which I eat a ton of, is what you are not supposed to eat because they scratch backwards and can promote regret or dwelling on the past.  Who knew?  Luckily, this vegetarian Two-Bean Harvest Chili is full of beans and collard greens so it should be a perfect New Year’s Day good luck meal.

Black beans and pinto beans provide hearty comfort to this chili while fire-roasted tomatoes give a rich smoky flavor that permeates every bite.  Carrots, onion, and collard greens add some fresh bulk making this a satisfying and healthy meal to start to the New Year.  Rather than using one 28-ounce can of fire-roasted tomatoes, I used one 14-ounce can mixed with one 14-ounce can of plain diced tomatoes.  Fire-roasted pack a ton of flavor but a little goes a long way.  Collard greens, which are slightly bitter but can easily withstand heat without wilting too much, can easily be substituted with kale, escarole or spinach (just don’t leave it out – cooked greens are good luck!)  Whether you believe in tales of good luck and fortune or not, I hope the coming year treats you well and I wish each and every one of you a very happy and healthy New Year!  Now, show me the money!

The ingredients:

In a large pot, heat oil on medium heat.  Add onion, carrots, garlic,  and 1/4 teaspoon salt.  Cook 8 to 10 minutes or until golden and tender, stirring  occasionally.

Add collard greens and 1/4 teaspoon salt and cook 1 to 2 minutes or until bright green and just tender, stirring.

Stir in chili powder, cumin, and oregano and cook 1 minute, stirring.

Stir in tomatoes and beans.  Simmer 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Divide among 4 bowls; top with sour cream or plain yogurt.

Additions:

• Reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese (topping)

Omissions:  None

Substitutions:

• Fat-free plain Greek yogurt

Overall Rating:  Love It

Source:  Good Housekeeping Magazine