The Dove's Nest White Chili

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves of garlic, minced

2-1/2 cups tomato, chopped or 2 cans (10 ounces each) of tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

6 fresh tomatillos, chopped

1 medium jalapeno, seeded, minced

2 cups chicken stock

1 7-ounce can green chilies, chopped

2 cups chopped cooked chicken

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

1/4 cup (heaping) chopped cilantro

2 19-ounce cans cannellini or Great Northern bean, undrained

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

salt & pepper to taste

sour cream

shredded Monterrey Jack or Cheddar cheese

Fried tortilla strips (optional)

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the onion. Saute for 3 to 5 minutes or until softened. Add the garlic. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes longer; do not brown.

Add the tomatoes, tomatillos and jalapeno. Cook until the tomatillos are tender, stirring occasionally.

Add the chicken stock, green chilies, chicken, oregano, cumin, cilantro, beans and lime juice. Cook until heated through, stirring frequently. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Ladle the chili into serving bowls.

Serve garnished with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese and fried tortilla strips (if using).

Yields 8 to 10 servings

Baked Tortilla Strips

Source: Rick Bayless, Mexico One Plate at a Time

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Cut the tortillas in strips. Place the strips on a cookie sheet in a single layer. Mist both sides lightly with vegetable oil. Bake, stirring them around once or twice, until they are crisp and lightly golden, 10-15 minutes.