Black Bean and Sausage Soup (Vegetarian Option)

• 4 Cans Black Beans drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic chopped
• 1 red bell pepper chopped
• 2 carrots pealed chopped (3/4 cup baby carrots may be substituted, chopped)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 shake red pepper flakes or more if you like heat
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons dried Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tablespoon sherry I've also used Port, Marsala, any of the dry sweeter wines (optional)
• 1-2 teaspoons liquid smoke optional, I like Hickory smoke
• 1 lime juiced
• 4 cups chicken broth or stock or vegetable broth if keeping vegetarian
• 1 pound or package of Polish Kielbasa or Andouille Sausage sliced bite size
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro

SUGGESTED TOPPINGS

• chopped cilantro
• Lime slices
• avocado
• sour cream
• Crumbled Mexican or Jack cheese
• rice