Impromptu Hatch Green Chili Soup

This is easy, healthy and delicious.

requires
 * 2 cans pinto beans
 * 1 large onion, chopped
 * 3 carrots, peeled and coarsely diced
 * 2 zucchini, sliced thin
 * 2 cans chopped mild green chiles, or 3 fresh, roasted, peeled hatch chiles
 * 3 fresh tomatoes, chopped
 * chili powder
 * garlic, salt, pepper to taste
 * olive oil

If using fresh chiles, pierce, broil carefully, turning often, until skin blisters; try to avoid getting totally black. Running under cold water, peel and remove all seeds. Chop fine.

1) in a large pot, put about 1 tbsp olive oil on medium heat, add a little onion. It should sizzle quietly
2) add onion and a bit of salt, and pressed garlic if using, sauté slowly, stirring occasionally
3) meanwhile, put carrots in a bowl with a little water. cover. microwave 2 minutes
4) when onion is starting to cook, add zucchini slices, diced carrot and chopped chiles
5) add chili powder generously. Vegetable mix should be colored a deep red.
6) When onions are getting soft, add tomatoes; don't mix, cover and cook for 5 minutes
7) Add canned beans including liquid. Stir. Cook until beans are heated through, about 5 minutes. Add salt, pepper, more chili power, to taste.

Garnish with tortilla chips for a festive touch.