If you would have asked me when I was little if a fun Friday night entailed cooking beans for 40 people, I would have questioned that. However– with a little music, the windows open and the opportunity to feed people healthy-love-filled food…..it was indeed a Friday evening well spent!

Beans for 40……

First, I soaked 3 1/2 lbs of beans over night, drained and rinsed.

I started with a smokey sauce (browned tomato paste, chipotle peppers and onion powder).

Next I made a version of a “mirepoix” (a base/combo of celery, onions, garlic, and green bell peppers)

….Then I added in the spices. The Cajun spices smelled so good and complimentary: smoked paprika, onions powder, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, white pepper, cinnamon, Korean red pepper, cayenne, and salt

Once everything was prepped, it was time to cook the beans with all the flavors. I boiled the beans with unsalted veggie bouillon, my mirepoix and the smokey sauce.

Once the beans got going I added thyme and oregano. After about 2 hours and some careful motoring, the beans absorbed all of the lovely flavors and were done!

I did hear back from the guests and the beans were a success! It always  tastes wonderful when you make your food with love…and balance the flavors of course:)