Black Bean Gumbo

• 2 Tbs. olive oil
• 3 cups mushrooms, coarsely chopped
• 2 medium onions, coarsely chopped
• 3 - 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 green bell pepper, seeded and chopped
• 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
• 4 Tbs. chilli powder, or to taste
• 1 tsp gumbo file powder (optional)
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 3 cups cooked dried black beans OR 2 cans (15 oz.) black beans, rinsed and drained ,li>2 cups fresh or frozen okra, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over moderate heat and cook the mushrooms, onions, carrots, and bell peppers covered for 5 minutes.

Add the chilli powder and optional gumbo file powder and cook an additional 3 minutes.

Add the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Serves 6 to 8.