Place the first 5 ingredients in a small Crock Pot and cook on high for 4 hours. Add beans ( thawed or frozen). Cook until beans are warm.

Taste; add seasonings to your liking. New Mexico Chili Powder for me.

Check water level; add pasta and some liquids. Stir, taste, adjust seasonings. 1-2 packets of Splenda may be added. Cook on low for an hour until pasta is cooked. Or add frozen cooked pasta you have saved from past meals.

Makes 4-6 servings and tastes great the next day. May freeze this too.

When Publix has Boca Crumbles, BIGIF, I buy 2 sets. I am allergic to cow protein. Can’t eat tomatoes unless I am taking Claritin! $21 year (400) for Members Mark @ Sam’s Club generic Claritin.