Vegetable Chili with Garlic Rice

1 . Stage

In a large saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately low heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in one third of the garlic, the chili powder, cumin, and cayenne and cook until fragrant, stirring, about 1 minute. Add the bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash and 1 teaspoon of the salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften, about 5 minutes.

2 . Stage

Add the tomatoes and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes. Stir in the beans and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes longer.

3 . Stage

Meanwhile, in a medium saucepan, heat the remaining tablespoon of oil over moderately low heat. Add the remaining garlic and the rice. Cook, stirring, until the rice is almost opaque, about 2 minutes. Add the broth and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook, covered, until the rice is tender, about 20 minutes.

4 . Stage

Stir the cilantro into the chili and serve atop the rice.

5 . Stage

Wine Recommendation: A soft and spicy red Côtes du Rhône is just the thing for this chili. Its roasted raspberry and herb flavors and light tannins will highlight the various vegetables.