Lentil Chili

This is a lower fat alternative to chili. It is nicely seasoned, tastes great on a cold winter day and freezes well. This makes a delicious meal served with cornbread or crusty rolls. As this makes quite a bit, I usually put it into 2-quart containers, cool and freeze. The night before I am going to serve it, I put it in the refrigerator and allow it to defrost. Then heat and enjoy!

• Ready In: 1 hr
• Serves: 8-10

Ingredients

• 1  lb lean ground turkey
• 1  medium onion, chopped
• 2 -3  garlic cloves, minced
• 5 -6  cups chicken broth
• 2  cups lentils, rinsed
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14 1/2ounce) can  dice cut canned tomatoes
• 1  tablespoon chili powder
• 1  teaspoon ground cumin
• 2 -3  teaspoons epazote
• 1  teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
•  salt and pepper
•  green onion, sliced
•  cheddar cheese, grated

Directions

1. In a heavy stock pot, saute the onion and garlic until onion is transparent.
2. Crumble in the ground turkey and cook until turkey is cooked through, stirring frequently.
3. Add from broth through epazote, stir to blend, bring to a boil; reduce heat, cover and cook on medium heat for 30 to 40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. At end of the cooking time, season with salt, pepper and red pepper flakes.
5. Garnish with sliced green onions and grated cheddar cheese.