Easy Turkey Chili

Not my best photo! Also, this should have simmered for 5 minutes longer to thicken but I was in a rush :) Still super tasty though!

This is the simplest recipe for turkey chili! I’ll make a big pot and then have it for lunches throughout the week. It’s hearty, filling, delicious - and it comes together so quickly! Pictured is a cornbread recipe I was testing out too. That still needs some work :)

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons olive oil

• 1 ½ yellow onion, diced

• 2 pounds ground turkey 

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 2 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes

• ¾ cup chicken broth

• 3 (15 oz) cans beans, rinsed and drained

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

• Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium high heat. Add the onions and a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent.

• Add the turkey and another good pinch of salt. Cook, breaking up the meat, for about 5 minutes.

• Add the remaining ingredients to the pot and bring to a simmer.

• Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until chili has thickened.

• Taste and adjust seasonings if needed!

• Optional: top with cheese, avocado, jalapeños, sour cream, greek yogurt, or anything else you like!

Veggie Sweet Potato Chili

This is a perfect “Meatless Monday” dinner! It’s hearty, filling, and so satisfying! I love topping my chili with some avocado and greek yogurt for some creaminess and richness. This recipe is also ideal for group dinners because it’s quick, easy, and uses just one pot!

Ingredients:

(Serves 4)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1⁄2-inch cubes

• 3 garlic cloves, pressed or minced

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 

• 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juices

• 2 cans (15 ounces) black, kidney, or cannellini beans (or a combo) rinsed and drained

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Garnish with: sour cream or greek yogurt, grated cheese, jalapeno, cilantro, and avocado

Directions:

1. Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil, onions, peppers, and sweet potatoes and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions start turning translucent, about 5-8 minutes.

2. Add the garlic, chili powder, cumin, cayenne, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes. Then add tomatoes, beans and broth, and stir. Bring the chili to a simmer. Let simmer, stirring occasionally until the sweet potatoes are tender and the chili has thickened (about 45 minutes)

3. Serve the chili with garnishes and enjoy!

Health Benefits of Cumin:

• Cumin is a good source of iron, which improves blood flow and circulation.

• Cumin is one of the most gut-friendly herbs, stimulating enzymes that aid in the digestion process.

• Cumin has antiviral and antibacterial properties, which helps to prevent the flu or common cold.

• It can help with respiratory issues because it’s an anti-congestive agent and can aid in the clearance of mucus from the airways and lungs.

Sources and Additional Reading

• https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/health-benefits-of-cumin.html

• https://www.netmeds.com/health-library/post/8-impressive-health-benefits-of-cumin

• https://draxe.com/nutrition/cumin-seeds/