Turkey Chili to the Rescue

No matter how few days are left before Spring, until the first tulip has risen I find it hard to say goodbye to winter foods.   I've talked about it in several posts; how the weather makes you feel like certain dishes.  There's very few of us that feel like starting up the BBQ and have a "grilling" day in the middle of Winter.

Chili is one of my all time favourite winter dishes.  Nothing like a hot bowl of chili, packed with beans, veggies and a few slices of fresh bread that will make you feel all fuzzy inside during the cold months.

The problem I find with a lot of the chili recipes Ive tried (of course before I came up with my own rendition) they are full of meat and beans...which I guess, according to the research I've done, thats actually what chili is all about.  Its just boring though...

So, as a mom, Im always looking for ways to add nutrition to the table...in the sneakiest ways.  What better way than with Chili?!  This recipe can be done on the stove or in a slow cooker.  Ive tried it both ways, and both turned out the same. If your not planning on watching the pot all day, the slow cooker will do it for you.  This recipe is loaded with meat and veggies and spices that you will love...and so will the kiddies!  I really recommend you try it...I think your going to love it!

1 package of ground turkey (or ground meat of your choice.  I prefer turkey, high protein and low fat)
1 can Mixed Beans
1/2 onion, diced
1/2 cup red pepper, diced
1/2 cup of fresh or frozen peas
3/4 cup carrots, diced
1/3 cup dried barley
2 cans pureed tomatoes
3 cups of chicken stock
1 Tablespoon of Turmeric
1 Tablespoon of Paprika
1/2 Tablespoon dried Oregano
Salt and Pepper to taste


~Turn on your slow cooker to Low (recipe will take 6-7 hrs-perfect if your heading to work and want dinner made when you get home) OR High (recipe will take 4-5 hrs)
~Remove your meat from the package and set on a plate
~Lightly season with Salt and Pepper and place at the bottom of the slow cooker
~Clean and chop all the veggies and place on top of the turkey (or meat you've chosen to use)
~Add the peas and the Spices
~Add the tomatoes and the Chicken Stock
~Mix well until the meat has broken up into pieces.  (Don't worry about the pieces being perfectly broken down, as the chili cooks the meat will break away on its own.)
~Mix in the barley
~Put the lid on and call it a day!


This chili recipe freezes very well and also makes the best next day Sloppy Joe's.  I like to throw a handful of fresh spinach overtop of mine.  Its slowly melts like butter into the delicious mix...and its the perfect way to add more greens to your dish!


Natalie