Haystacks

The melding of families always brings with it the traditions from each side. These traditions are something that are carried on through future generations. A melting pot of flavors and ideas that eventually brings the world together (at least we can hope for that at any rate).

Haystacks are a family favorite. In the grand scheme of things it is simple and easy as any good comfort food should be. Haystacks were something that my wife’s mother used to make when my wife was growing up, we rarely call them haystacks anymore. This dish is more often known in our home as simply chili rice. But it is one when we make chili, there is a good chance it will end up becoming this.

Ingredients:

roughly a can or two of tomatoes (I used 1.5lbs of fresh frozen skinned and seeded tomatoes)
1 can tomato juice
1lb ground beef
1 can black beans (rinsed or use rehydrate dryed)
1 clove garlic
1 medium onion
1/2 lb green beans
1 cup cooked rice
1 habanero or chipotle chili
1 tablespoon chili powder

Method:

Sweat the onions and garlic till translucent. Add tomatoes, chili powder, and habanero and bring to a boil. Add tomato juice beef and green beans and bring to a boil. Finally add rice, and black beans and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes to allow flavors to marry.
Serve over corn chips with a dollop of sour cream and shredded colby jack cheese.

Time for a pint…