Caldos
Soups & Stews

Sopa De Chaya

6 slices bacon -- chopped
1 medium onion -- chopped
1-3 inch chorizo sausage -- in 1/4" slices
2 cloves garlic -- chopped
1/4 pound ham -- in 1/2" cubes
1- 16 oz can whole tomatoes -- chopped
6 cups water
1- 16 oz can garbanzo beans -- drained
1 pound chaya * -- coarsely chopped

* Chaya is a leafy plant 
with a cabbage-like taste 
that has been used in 
Yucatan since pre-Hispanic times. 
Fresh spinach is an 
acceptable substitute.

Sauté the bacon, onion, 
chorizo, garlic, and ham 
at medium heat 
until the onion is soft. 
Add the tomatoes 
and simmer for 5 minutes. 
Add the water, garbanzos, 
and chaya and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer,
covered, for 1 hour.