Yummy Veggie (Or Turkey) Chili

Maito's Note:

You can also add eggplant or zucchini, if you desire. I have even used buffalo in place of the turkey!

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

Chili

• ½ lb ground turkey , very lean (optional)
• 0.5 (1 ¼ ounce) packet taco seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion , chopped
• 2 carrots , sliced
• 1 red bell pepper , chopped
• 3 garlic cloves , minced
• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon fennel seed (optional)
• cayenne pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup red wine
• 1 (14 ounce) can kidney beans , rinsed and drained
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 ½ cups frozen corn , defrosted
• 1 lemon, juice of
• 1 lemon, zest of

Possible toppings

• nonfat plain yogurt or sour cream
• baked corn tortilla chips
• avocado
• cilantro
• blue cheese (for the adventurous!)

Directions:

1. Cook meat and taco seasoning according to package directions.
2. While meat is cooking, begin sauteing the vegetables. Start with the onions, then add the carrots, bell pepper, and garlic.
3. After 5-10 minutes, add the cumin, oregano, fennel seeds, and cayenne pepper to taste. Then add the wine, beans, tomatoes, corn, meat, and lemon zest (if using).
4. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Add lemon juice. Taste for proper seasoning, and serve with desired toppings.

Reviews

[WiGal]

I did put all of the cumin in and we loved it! What a wonderful chili for a cool damp day. Thanks Maito for posting. Made for Spanish forum event.

[Hunkle]

I know this is supposed to be a red meat free recipe but I didn't have ground turkey. So, I used ground beef. A half pound of meat didn't seem to be enough so I added another half pound. To keep it moist I also added a half cup of beef bouillon. I'm glad I increased the amounts because my husband, 9YO son, and I gobbled it all up. This was good with cheddar cheese melted on top with tortilla chips to scoop and munch. Thanks for sharing Maito.

[Gerry]

Have always maintained one cannot have too many Chili recipes - having enjoyed this version I now have added another to my cookbook. Delicious with the vegetables making for eye appeal. Used lean meat, added the optional fennel because I happen to love the flavor it imparts and went light on the lemon. Next time will double the recipe to assure some gets to the freezer! Thank you for sharing.