Instructions: Sort through the beans for stones, which should be discarded. Rinse the beans and place them in a large pot with the water, partially cover with a lid, and bring to a simmer.

Heat the oil in a large wok or saute pan . Add the onion, garlic and cook over high heat for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in the sweet potatoes and carrots.

Continue to cook over high heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from the heat and add to the pot of beans. Stir in the ginger, cover with the lid and continue to simmer for a total of 40 minutes, until the beans, carrots and potatoes are soft. Midway, after about 20 minutes you can add tamari soy and pepper; taste to see if there is enough ginger. It should be very spicy. The strength of ginger varies depending on its freshness.

Add more if needed. Just before serving, while the rice is standing, add two handfuls of spinach leaves and simmer; when wilted but still bright green, turn off the burner and add the coconut milk. Stir to heat through.

Serve with the rice in a wide shallow bowl. Pass the condiments.

ABOUT THE DISH: This stew was adapted from
*Bettina Vitells A TASTE OF One-Bowl meal. The coconut milk is optional: it added another layer of flavor. Use lots of ginger, the spicier the better. Dont be afraid of the Tamari soy. Tamari adds depth. We served with chilled pear slices. A good variation might be to substitute delicata squash for the carrot. Pat

ABOUT ADZUKI BEANS - sweet and flavorful small dry commonly red beans grown in Japan and the US. They are quick to cook and the easiest of all beans to digest. They make delicious soups and stews, and are wonderful in salads. In Japan, there are many varieties; some beans are made into sweets.

NOTES : Dear Bettina, We have just purchased your book, "A Taste of Heaven and Earth", after reading (& trying) recipes from a library copy.

. . Also, we loved the simplicity of your recipes. Our favorite one at present is Spicy Adzuki Beans which we transpose to other bean dishes or tofu dishes or vegetable dishes. Next on our list is the savory tarts. Delicious! - Queensland, Australia

Tried and recommended. Might be a bit too sweet for some. Please taste the broth before adding the coconut milk and then decide.

Definitely feeds 4.

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