warm & hearty buffalo bean soup

On cold days at work, when the heat just can't seem to warm up our area, I look forward to having my Buffalo Bean Soup for lunch. It's very hearty, and has a warm hint of hot sauce for depth (more if you like a kick in the butt!). I have no idea where in my brain this came from, but it is an experiment-turned-tradition to which I am completely addicted.

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BUFFALO BEAN SOUP

You'll need:

• 1lb bag of dry 15 or 16 Bean Soup mix, rinsed and drained, toss the ham flavor packet
• 2 cans of diced tomatoes, or about 4 chopped fresh tomatoes, with juices
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1lb chicken breast or tenderloins
• 6 cups water
• 1T salt
• 1/4c or more hot sauce (I prefer Franks Buffalo Wing Sauce for the mild buttery flavor)
• a slow-cooker
• 10-minutes of prep time, 6 hours of cooking time, and 10-minutes of finishing time

Instructions:
Throw it all in a slow-cooker.  Cook on high for 6-8 hours, or until beans are soft and chicken is falling apart.  Using a set of tongs and a fork, shred the chicken.  Taste, and add more hot sauce and/or salt as desired.

Curl up with a bowl and have yourself a wonderful winters day.

Yields:
3.5 quarts, or 7 2-cup servings
Each serving: 330 calories, 31g fiber, $1.15

Freezes well.

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What's your favorite winter food?

Much Love,
Able-Bodied Girl