Lynn Dugan- MyPlate2Yours
Just what cold weather days call for, the warmth of hearty chili! This is a quick-to-make recipe, only onions and peppers need to be chopped. You can also customize the 'meat'. I typically make it with lean ground beef but ground turkey or chicken works well too!
Just a note on chili powder: be careful. Many chili powder brands add salt and other ingredients. If your brand contains salt, do not add the 1/2 teaspoon indicated in the recipe. By far, my preferred chili powder is ancho chili powder. Ancho chili powder brings your chili to another level of taste! I purchase mine on Amazon or make my own.
For DIY ancho chili powder, purchase dried whole chiles (2 ounce package yields 1/4 cup powder). Slit peppers with a paring knife, and shake out seeds. Remove stem. Tear skin into 1 inch pieces. Using a coffee grinder, place pieces into grinder and process until finely ground (may have to process in batches). Store in airtight container. Enjoy!
Hearty Meat and Bean Chili (serves 4-6)
1-1/2 pounds lean ground beef (at least 90% lean)
2 minced garlic cloves
1 each diced: medium onion and green pepper
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can tomato sauce
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt
1 can kidney beans (drained and rinsed)
Cook ground beef until light brown. Drain, if needed. Add garlic, onion, and green pepper. Cook on medium heat and stir occasionally to start softening veggies, 2-3 minutes. Add chili powder and cook and stir a few minutes more. Add canned tomatoes (undrained), sauce, Worcestershire and salt. Simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese. Enjoy!