Recipe: Black Bean Chili

1 1/2 lbs ground beef-Browned and drained (optional)
4 c black beans
3 c canned whole tomatoes- chopped
1 lg green bell pepper- chopped
2 lg red onions
1 lg Red bell pepper- chopped
1/2 c Olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp oregano
1/2 c Jalapeno or green chilies- chopped
2 cloves garlic- minced
1/2 lb grated monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
1/2 c green onions- chopped

Sort through the beans and remove the irreglars and small pebbles, if any.  Rinse and place in a large pot and cover with water to several inches above the top of the beans. Cover and bring to boil, reduce heat and cook for 1.5 to 1.75 hours or until tender.  Add more water if needed. When done, strain in colander. Set aside. Saute red onions and garlic in olive oil.  Add the bell peppers, cumin, oregano, chilies and ground beef and continue to saute until the meat is done. If desired, add salt and pepper to taste.  Add this mixture in a large pot with the beans. Add the tomatoes and the juice from the tomatoes and continue to cook. Simmer for at least 2 hours for best flavor.  To serve, place grated cheese in individual serving bowls, add chili and top with sour cream and green onions.