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Friday, February 14, 2014

Happy Friend's Day

Happy Valentine's Day! I love this day, but not because I have a boyfriend or big romantic plans (in fact, we have no plans at the moment). I love it because I'm going to start celebrating it the way the Finns do. While most of the world celebrates St. Valentine’s Day on February 14, Finland celebrates “Friend’s (or Friendship) Day” 

So rather than the American traditions dedicated to a day of love, romance and an excess of hearts and Hallmark, Finns celebrate all of their friends - how can you argue with that?! Next year I'm sending cards and little gifts to all of my lovely friends..I can 't wait! 

xo

Sunday, February 2, 2014

Black Bean Soup with Chorizo and Lime

Want something warm and hearty, but tired of chili? Try black bean soup! This one features chorizo, a fantastic smoky sausage that provides just the right amount of heat. 

Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive or coconut oil, divided
3 ounces Spanish chorizo (not to be confused with Mexican chorizo - read about the difference)
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped red bell pepper
2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chile powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups unsalted chicken stock
2 (15 oz.) cans unsalted black beans, coarsely mashed
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1/4 cup plain greek yogurt (or sour cream)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro


1) Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 teaspoon oil, swirl to coat and add chorizo. Cook 3 minutes stirring occasionally. Remove chorizo from pan (do not wipe pan)

2) Add remaining 1 teaspoon oil to pan , swirl to coat and add onion and bell pepper. Cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in oregano, garlic, cumin, chile powder and salt; cook 30 seconds.

3) Stir in stock and beans. Bring to a boil; reduce heat, and simmer 3 minutes.

4) Stir in cooked chorizo and lime juice.

5) Ladle into bowls and top with greek yogurt, lime wedge and fresh cilantro. It's amazing the difference fresh herbs can make!

Enjoy!!