Instructions: In a non-stick, medium sauce pan saute the shallot, garlic, cumin, potatoes and squash with oregano and plenty of freshly ground pepper. Hold the salt. Saute for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly browned and aromatic.

Add the beef broth (or vegetarian broth), the watery tomato juice, vegetable flakes (Perc or Mrs. Dash, etc.) and simmer 5 to 8 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Add the tomatoes, cayenne, tomato paste and beans; stir well; reduced heat, partially cover and cook for about 15 minutes. Make the simple cucumber relish and let stand at least 10 minutes. To thicken, puree about 1/4 of the soup, and blend well. Some soup should now cling to the spoon.

Taste the soup, adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, cayenne and or mole, as needed. Serve in large, shallow bowls and top with portion of relish.

Serve with warm bread for dipping.

Serves 2 to 4 as main or entree.

Makes about 5 cups.

NOTES : SANTIAGOS CAFE
* 660 Oswego
* Victoria, BC
* Near the Clipper landing. Menu of small plates and tapas from Latin and South America, particularly Brazil. Bistro scene. REVIEW 97 Sep: One rainy day after touring we stopped by for some comfort food. Their black bean soup was unexpected and frankly, "defanged" - but the idea was good. It was basically a tomato soup with some potato and carrot and black beans and a timid pepper. Here, on the up side, is our (tested) revved up revision with fire and ice (cayenne and cukes). Chile heads can spice it up more! The cucumbers are a must!

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