In 2014, Nash’s grew a limited quantity of black cocos beans, which would go wonderfully in this lovely chili.

2 tablespoons olive oil, extra-virgin
1 large yellow onion, chopped
1 large yellow bell pepper, chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoon chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
1/2 pound black beans, soaked
1 pound tomatoes, diced
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons light brown sugar
2 cups wheat berries, cooked
Juice of 1 lime
1 avocado, diced
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped

Pour dry beans into a medium sized container with lid, and fill with water to cover beans plus some. Cover container and soak overnight (either in refrigerator or on stove top).

Next day, drain beans and add fresh water, enough to cover beans plus some. Uncovered, heat to boiling then reduce to maintain simmer. Cook until soft, approximately 1 hour. You may need to add water to keep beans covered during the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

At the same time, place wheat berries and 4 1/2 cups salted water in a saucepan and cook, uncovered, over low heat approximately 1 hour, or until berries are soft. Drain and set aside.

In a dutch oven or soup pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, garlic, chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt and pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 5 minutes.

Add beans, tomatoes, jalapeno, broth, and brown sugar.

Bring to a boil then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.

Stir in cooked wheat berries and beans and heat through, about 15 minutes more.

Remove from heat and stir in lime juice.

Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with avocado and cilantro.

We thank Annie McHale for this recipe.