BRAZILIAN BLACK BEAN STEW

Steps:

• Combine the tomato juice with 3 cups of the water in a large saucepan and bring to a simmer. Add the rice, then lower the heat and simmer gently, covered, until all the liquid is absorbed, about 30 minutes. Set aside.
• Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large soup pot. Add the onion and sauté over medium-low heat until translucent. Add the garlic and continue to sauté until the onion is golden.
• Stir in the sweet potatoes and the remaining 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring to a rapid simmer, then lower the heat. Cover and simmer gently until the sweet potatoes are just tender but still firm, about 10 to 15 minutes.
• Add the beans, bell peppers, tomatoes, chili, cumin, and thyme. Simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes longer, uncovered. The stew should have the consistency of a thick chili-moist but not soupy. Add a bit more water if too thick.
• Stir in half of the parsley and season with salt and pepper. Serve over the hot cooked rice in shallow bowls and garnish each serving with a little of the extra parsley.
• Nutrition Information
• Per serving:
• Calories: 363
• Total fat: 4g
• Protein: 14g
• Fiber: 13g
• Carbohydrate: 71g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 150mg