Artichoke Ragout With Saffron & Olives

1 1/2 Tbs olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 tsp crushed saffron threads
1/4 tsp ground black pepper
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 cup crushed tomatoes
2 1/2 cups white mushrooms, quartered
1 8-oz pkg. frozen artichoke hearts
1/4 cup kalamata olives

1) Heat skillet over medium heat.  Add oil, then onion and garlic.  Saute 1 to 2 minutes, or until garlic turns gold.  Stir in saffron and black pepper.
2) Add bell pepper and wine.  Increase heat to medium-high, and cook 3 to 4 minutes, or until wine is reduced by half.  Add tomatoes, and cook 3 minutes more.
3) Stir in mushrooms, artichoke hearts, and 1 cup water, and bring to a boil.  Cover, reduce heat to medium, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.  Remove lid, and cook off any excess moisture, if necessary.  Stir in olives, and season with salt and pepper, if desired.

Review:  This was pretty yummy.  I served it over bulgur to have a filling base.  It had a bit of tang from the artichoke hearts and olives, but a nice savory flavor from the saffron.  Yum.