This is a fat-free entree that is received equally well by folks who are vegetarian and health conscious and those who enjoy good food, regardless of its nutritional composition. (8 servings)

• 2 ½ cups chopped yellow onions
• 1 Tbsp. minced fresh garlic
• 1 ½ Tbsp. Southwestern Spice Mixture (recipe follows)
• 1 ¼ cup peeled, chopped sweet potato
• 2 cups drained and rinsed canned hominy
• 1 ½ cup tomato juice
• 1 cup vegetable stock
• ¼ cup diced roasted red pepper
• 1 cup diced canned tomatoes, with juices
• 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms, wilted
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed

Wilt the onions completely. Add the garlic and spices, cover and sweat all until softened. Add the squash and hominy and stir to coat well. Cook 5-10 minutes. Add the liquids, tomatoes and peppers. Cook 20-30 minutes. Add the corn and mushrooms and continue cooking stew until the sweet potatoes and hominy are tender and the flavors are mellowed.

Per Serving: Calories: 67 Protein: 2gm Fat: 1gm Carbohydrates: 15gm Sodium: 689mg

Southwestern Spice Mixture

• 2 tsp. chili powder
• ½ tsp. cayenne powder
• 1 tsp. paprika
• 2 tsp. ground cumin powder
• 2 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• ¾ tsp. black pepper
• 2 tsp. salt
• 1 ½ tsp. oregano leaf

Toast spices in a dry skillet until just beginning to smoke. Transfer to a plate and set aside to cool. Store in sealed glass jar.