Easy Black Bean Soup

• 4 slices lean bacon
• 2 green bell peppers, diced
• 2 cups diced onions
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 (14 1/2 ounce) cans chicken broth
• 4 (15 ounce) cans black beans, undrained
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 12 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 fresh jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
• 14 teaspoon white pepper
• 4 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 lb pickled pork, diced into 1/2 inch cubes
• sour cream (optional)
• grated sharp cheddar cheese (optional)

1. In large dutch oven saute bacon until crisp, then remove and set bacon aside.
2. In bacon grease saute onions, bell pepper, garlic and celery over medium heat until soft, about 30 minutes.
3. Add all remaining ingredients, lower fire and simmer covered for about 2 hours.
4. Serve with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle top with grated cheese, if desired.

lean bacon, green bell peppers, onions, stalks celery, garlic, chicken broth, black beans, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, red pepper, fresh jalapeno, white pepper, chili powder, pork, sour cream, cheddar cheese

Taken from www.food.com/recipe/easy-black-bean-soup-144955 (may not work)