veg chili

2 tablespoons butter
1 medium onion, chopped
1 large carrot, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1 medium green bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded and chopped
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped  

1 tablespoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoons salt

4 cups water
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with their liquid
1 big can red beans
1 big can black beans

cheese, yogurt or sour cream, hot sauce for everyone but leeanne :)

chop vegetables.  melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. add onions, carrots, celery, peppers and garlic and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, until vegetables are softened but not browned. add oregano, cumin, chili powder and salt. Stir to blend. add tomatoes and water. gently simmer over low heat, uncovered, for 45 minutes. add beans and simmer an additional 30 minutes. eat over rice or with cornbread