Italian Sausage Chili with Rice

1 . Stage

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat; stir in bell peppers, onion, celery, and carrots. Cook and stir until crisp tender, about 5 minutes.

2 . Stage

At the same time, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir sausage in the hot skillet until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard grease.

3 . Stage

Transfer cooked vegetables and sausage to a Dutch oven. Stir in stewed tomatoes, 6 cups water, black beans, kidney beans, tomato paste, brown rice, chile peppers, chili powder, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

4 . Stage

Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until thickened, 1 hour or more. Add more water if too thick.

5 . Stage

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with Cheddar cheese.