Add black beans, corn, crushed tomatoes and ¾ cup water. Bring to a simmer and cook 8 to 10 minutes, until vegetables are tender and chili has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Stir in the tomato paste ... heat of your chili powder. Remove from the heat, taste, and season with more salt, if desired. Using the back of a spoon, smooth out the top of the bean mixture.

The bean layer is boldly seasoned like a chili — with onion, garlic, chili powder, oregano and tomato paste — but with ... If ...