Black Bean Soup

3 Tbsp. olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts - cut into small pieces

3 - 15 oz. cans of black beans

2 - 15 oz. cans of chicken broth

1 pound smoked sausage, cut into small pieces

3 Tbsp. chili powder

2 tsp. ground cumin

1 Tbsp. fresh cilantro

Grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onion, chopped scallions, jalapeno peppers, tortilla chips, hot sauce.

Using medium heat, sauté onion in oil until it is transparent; add garlic and chicken pieces and stir until chicken is slightly browned. Add black beans, with liquid, then add broth and sausage. Season with chili powder, cumin, and cilantro. You may add more of these spices to perk up the soup. Bring the soup to a boil on high heat, then turn down to medium heat and simmer for 30 minutes. After the soup has simmered, check to see if the soup needs more seasoning. Serve soup with grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped onion, chopped scallions, jalapeno peppers, tortilla chips and hot sauce as condiments.