Handmade Christmas 2011

I'm trying some new things this year.  Last year I had grand plans for all the things I was going to make.  I'm not sure what I was thinking, having a newborn and all that.  This year I've been able to get a few more things done. PJs are done for everyone, and I made these little dolls today.  Ashley's look amazing, mine are a bit simpler, but I think they will be loved.

I've got what I need to make the boy version as well...we'll see if they get done by Christmas!

Chicken and Black Bean Soup

This is the first recipe that I feel is really mine.  I'm sure I've seen several versions of this in cookbooks, but this one recipe I never look at a cookbook to make.  So, here it is (for me as much as anyone)

2 c. dried black beans
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 can diced tomatoes
1 large can tomato sauce
1/2 onion, diced
2-3 cloves of garlic, minced (or more, to taste)
1 Tablespoon cumin
4 c. chicken stock
3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 bag frozen corn

Rinse and sort beans.
Saute onions and garlic is a bit of oil in a large pot.
Add broth, tomatoes, beans and cumin to the garlic and onion.
Bring to a boil.
 Turn the heat down, add chicken, and simmer for about two hours.
Take out chicken breasts and shred them.
  Add the chicken back to the pan, along with the frozen corn.
Turn off heat, cover, and let sit for a few minutes.
Serve with sour cream and cheese.

This easily makes enough for six.  Leftovers are just as good, and it freezes well.