Confessions of a Foodie

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Showing posts with label California Turkey Chili. Show all posts
Showing posts with label California Turkey Chili. Show all posts

Thursday, May 1, 2025

Turkey

Many of us in the U.S. think of Turkey as a holiday food. But in reality, turkey can easily be an anytime food, as today's post shows. Check out the Turkey Bacon Burgers, the Quick Turkey Stir-Fry, and the rest of today's recipes. Enjoy!

QUICK TURKEY CHILI

This is from Southern Living, and begins, "Finish this turkey chili with your preferred toppings, like corn chips, cheese, and sour cream."

Active Time: 20 minutes; Total Time: 20 minutes; Servings: 4

To view this online, go to https://www.southernliving.com/quick-turkey-chili-8704058.

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. canola oil

1-1/2 cups chopped yellow onion (from 1 medium onion)

3/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (from 1 bell pepper)

3 Tbsp. taco seasoning mix (from 1 [1-oz.] envelope)

1 Tbsp. tomato paste

1 (14 1/2-oz.) can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes

1-1/2 cups water

1 lb. ground turkey (white and dark meat)

1 (15-oz.) can light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1-1/2 Tbsp. finely chopped chipotle chiles in adobo sauce (about 2 canned chiles)

1 tsp. kosher salt

Toppings: shredded Cheddar cheese, sour cream, sliced avocado, chopped fresh cilantro, and tortilla chips

Directions

Heat oil in a medium Dutch oven over medium-high. Add onion and bell pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and softened, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add taco seasoning and tomato paste; cook, stirring constantly, until spices are fragrant and tomato paste has darkened, about 1 minute.

Stir in crushed tomatoes and water, scraping bottom of Dutch oven to release any browned bits.

Add turkey, and stir to break into smaller pieces.

Stir in beans, chiles, and salt. Bring to a simmer, undisturbed, over medium-high. Reduce heat to medium; simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until turkey is no longer pink, about 8 minutes.

Ladle evenly into 4 bowls, and serve with desired toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you fix bland turkey chili?

If you find your turkey chili is bland after cooking, add extra seasonings as desired to bump up the flavor. Adding a splash of vinegar can also help wake up the flavors.

How do you thicken turkey chili?

To thicken up the chili, you can continue to simmer, add a cornstarch slurry, or lightly smash some of the beans for a thickened texture.

EASY TURKEY MEATLOAF

This is from Melissa Knific in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Melissa wrote, "There’s really no reason not to celebrate meatloaf — it’s simple, budget-friendly, cleanup is a breeze and there are almost always leftovers for next-day sandwiches. While beef is often the go-to choice for the meat, turkey is a flavorful alternative that can take on a slew of mix-ins. Here, seasoned bread crumbs, garlic powder and Worcestershire do the work, but a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a palmful of fresh, chopped thyme or sage can be added for an extra boost. Grated apple ensures the meatloaf isn’t dry; use any variety you have on hand. A sweet, slightly vinegary sauce is spooned over the meatloaf after it’s formed, caramelizing when baked (if you have a favorite bottled or from-scratch barbecue sauce feel free to use 2/3 cup of it instead). Serve this meatloaf with mashed potatoes and a green vegetable."

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Yield: 4 to 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1025481-easy-turkey-meatloaf. Also, if you haven't signed up for it already, sign up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter. Great recipes, guides, and more.

Ingredients

For the Meatloaf

Nonstick cooking spray

1 large egg

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (90 percent lean)

1 medium apple, cored and grated (6 ounces)

1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (1 cup)

3/4 cup seasoned panko bread crumbs

2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1-1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Sauce

1/2 cup ketchup

1 tablespoon packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon vinegar (cider, distilled, or white or red wine)

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Preparation

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and coat with cooking spray.

Prepare the meatloaf: In a large bowl, beat the egg. Add ground turkey, apple, onion, panko, Worcestershire, garlic powder, salt, pepper and Italian seasoning, if using. Using hands, combine until everything is well mixed. Transfer to the prepared sheet pan and form into a football-shaped loaf, about 9-by-5 inches.

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire and pepper until well combined. Pour evenly over the top of the meatloaf, allowing the sauce to drip down the sides.

Bake meatloaf until the temperature in the center registers 160 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, 45 to 55 minutes. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1-1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1-3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

QUICK TURKEY STIR-FRY

This comes from Campbell’s Kitchen, and begins, “Here's a tasty use for leftover turkey...this quick and easy stir-fry is seasoned with ginger and soy sauce, and on the table in a snap!”

Prep Time: 15 minutes; total time: 25 minutes; Serves: 4 (about 1-3/4 cups each)

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

3 medium carrot, sliced (about 1-1/2 cups)

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1 can (10-1/2 ounces) Campbell's® Turkey Gravy

1 tablespoon soy sauce

2 green onion, sliced (about 1/4 cup)

1-1/2 cups cubed cooked turkey

2 cups instant white rice, prepared according to package directions

Directions

Heat the oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add the carrots and ginger and stir-fry until the carrots are tender-crisp.

Stir the gravy, soy sauce, onions and turkey in the skillet and cook until the mixture is hot and bubbling. Serve the turkey mixture over the rice.

FAJITA TURKEY BURGER

Makes 5 servings

See the recipe with photo here: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1326.shtml

Ingredients

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and freshly ground pepper, if desired

1 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1/4 cup salsa, drained

3/4 cup cilantro, divided

2 onions, sliced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

Wholly Guacamole classic or spicy dip, if desired

Wholly Guacamole salsa, if desired

5 reduced-calorie hamburger buns, split

1/3 cup shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

In small bowl, combine cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, red pepper flakes, paprika and salt and pepper, if desired.

Mix ground turkey, half of spice mixture, drained salsa, and 1/2 cup cilantro; form into 5 (1/2-inch thick) patties. Lightly spray patties with cooking spray. Place patties in skillet over medium-high heat. Cook 17 to 19 minutes, turning occasionally.

Always cook to well done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Meanwhile, coat large skillet with cooking spray. Cook onions, bell peppers and remaining spice mixture over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining 1/4 cup cilantro.

To assemble burgers, spread guacamole and salsa, if desired, on buns. Place burgers, cheese and vegetable mixture on buns.

Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 260; Protein: 29 g; Fat: 7 g; Sodium: 410 mg; Cholesterol: 60 mg; Saturated Fat: 3.5 g; Dietary Fiber: 4 g; Sugars: 5 g; Carbohydrates: 23 g

TURKEY BACON BURGERS

This recipe begins, “If you're a fan of The Biggest Loser show, then you may have watched host Bob Harper teach contestants how to make Turkey Bacon Burgers. The contestants loved their Turkey Bacon Burgers and now we're sharing the recipe for you to try...”

Makes 10 servings

Print Friendly: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/bin/print.cgi?ID=1323

View recipe with photo: http://diabeticgourmet.com/recipes/html/1323.shtml

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Extra Lean Ground Turkey Breast

1 (16-ounce) package Jennie-O Lean Ground Turkey

15 slices of chopped, uncooked Jennie-O Turkey Bacon

1/2 cup minced onion

1 tablespoon chopped garlic

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

10 lettuce leaves

10 tomato slices

20 sweet onion slices

avocado slices, if desired

pickled jalapeno slices, if desired

mustard, if desired

Directions

In large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey,onion, garlic and pepper*.

Add 15 slices of chopped, uncooked Jennie-O Turkey Bacon to the meat mixture. For ease of chopping, place bacon slices in freezer for 15 minutes. Chop finely while still firm.

Form into 10 patties. Ideally, make this mixture at least 8 hours before cooking so that the turkey can marinate with the other ingredients. Freeze any extra formed patties to thaw later.

Heat grill to medium-high heat. Grill turkey burgers approximately 14 to 16 minutes. Always cook to well-done, 165F as measured by a meat thermometer.

Layer lettuce, tomato, turkey burger and onion. Top with avocado, pickled jalapeno and mustard, if desired.

Always cook to an internal temperature of 165F. Learn how to safely handle turkey.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 140; Protein: 20 g; Fat: 4 g; Sodium: 65 mg; Cholesterol: 55 mg; Saturated Fat: 4 g; Dietary Fiber: 1 g; Sugars: 4 g; Carbohydrates: 6 g

Monday, March 31, 2025

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Beef Tortilla Casserole and Italian Wedding Soup with Turkey Meatballs. Enjoy!

GINGERY CHICKEN STEW

This is from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Mark wrote, "Just 1-1/2 pounds of chicken to serve four people? Yes, because the emphasis is on the winter squash and daikon radish in this stew; unexpected, but substantial. It may seem downright semivegetarian, but the variety of flavors more than makes up for it."

About 1 hour, largely unattended; Yield: 4 servings

To view this yumminess online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016045-gingery-chicken-stew. While you're at it, please sign up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter. Really great recipes, lots of guides...If you're like me, you won't regret it.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1-1/2 pounds (4 whole bone-in) chicken thighs

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 large onion, chopped

2 cups chopped daikon radish

1/4 cup minced ginger

2 cups vegetable or chicken stock, or water, more as needed

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice

3 pieces star anise

1-1/2 pounds any winter squash, cut into 1-inch chunks

Preparation

Put the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the chicken, sprinkle with the salt and pepper, and cook, turning the pieces as they release easily from the pan, until they’re well browned on both sides, 8 to 12 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot.

Add the onion, daikon and ginger to the pot and cook until they begin to soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the stock, soy sauce, lime juice and star anise and bring to a boil, stirring to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken and adjust the heat so the mixture bubbles gently but steadily.

Cook the chicken, covered, until very tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in the squash. Simmer, stirring occasionally and adding enough stock to keep it from sticking, until the squash is tender but not mushy, 10 to 15 minutes. If you like, remove the chicken thighs, cut the meat from the bones and return it to the pot. Fish out and discard the star anise. Adjust the seasonings to taste and serve.

BEEF TORTILLA CASSEROLE

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, “An enchilada dinner kit creates a hearty beef casserole that's in the oven in just 20 minutes.”

Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 50 Minutes; Makes 6 servings

View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tortilla-casserole.

Ingredients

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 box (14.2 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada dinner kit

1/2 cup water

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)

Preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in both pouches enchilada sauce (from dinner kit), the seasoning mix (from dinner kit), water and chiles; heat until hot.

In ungreased 11x7-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the beef mixture. Cut tortillas (from dinner kit) in half. Place 6 tortilla halves on beef; spread with 1/2 cup of the sour cream. Top with 1/2 cup of the cheese, 1 cup of the beef mixture and remaining 6 tortilla halves. Top with remaining sour cream, remaining beef mixture and remaining cheese.

Bake 30 minutes. If desired, serve with additional sour cream, diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh cilantro.

Expert Tips

Serve a tossed salad wtih fruity chunks of pineapple, mango or oranges.

HAWAIIAN MACARONI SALAD

This yummy macaroni salad is from Christin Mahrlig on her very cool site, Spicy Southern Kitchen. If you’ve never heard of her site (or you have, but never checked it out), I suggest you check it out ASAP. Go ahead, I’ll wait…(Tap, tap, tap…).

Anyway, the recipe begins, “Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is so fabulously creamy and simple. This mayonnaise-based pasta salad makes a wonderful side for summer bbqs and picnics.”

Prep Time: 10 mins; Cook Time: 10 mins; Total Time: 20 mins; Servings: 10

To view this online, go to https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/hawaiian-macaroni-salad/.

Ingredients

16 ounces elbow pasta

1/4 cup grated onion

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 cups mayonnaise

1/2 cup whole milk

1 tablespoon sugar

2 shredded carrots

salt and pepper

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoons kosher salt. Cook pasta according to package directions.

Place onion in a large bowl. When pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the bowl. Add garlic powder and apple cider vinegar and stir. Let sit 10 minutes.

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.

Set aside about 1/2 a cup and add the rest to the macaroni along with carrots. Stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cover and refrigerate both the bowl of macaroni salad and the reserved 1/2 a cup of mayonnaise mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir in the reserved mayonnaise mixture just before serving.

Recipe Notes

Be sure not to overcook your pasta or it will have a mushy texture.

If you to dress it up some, add diced ham or chopped pineapple.

SLOW-COOKER CHILI MAC ’N CHEESE

This is from Judy Kim on Delish, and begins, “Put in a little bit of prep in the morning, come home to an insanely delish dinner.”

Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4.

According to Delish, “Judy Kim is a NYC-based food stylist, recipe developer, and photographer. She also writes recipes for her website The Judy Lab.”

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. chili powder

1 tbsp. ground cumin

1 tbsp. cayenne

2 lb. lean ground beef

2 28-oz. cans crushed tomatoes

15 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 lb. small pasta, such as macaroni or fusilli

2 c. shredded Cheddar

2 c. shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Scallions, jalapeƱo, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream, for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened. Add chili, cumin, and cayenne until fragrant, 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker along with tomatoes and kidney beans and season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low, 6 hours.

When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Add pasta and cheese to slow cooker and stir until melted. Serve with scallions, jalapeƱos, avocado, cilantro, sour cream and cheese.

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP WITH TURKEY MEATBALLS

This is from Sarah Copeland in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sarah wrote, "Classic Italian wedding soup is beloved for its simplicity and satisfaction. This turkey version is lean, while meatballs stay moist by simmering in broth. Start with the most flavorful broth you can get your hands on (homemade is ideal, but store-bought works well too), then pack the meatballs with flavor (garlic and parsley) and staying power (egg, panko and cheese, to gently bind them together). Traditionalists may be tempted to add a small grated onion to the meat mixture, and sweat celery and carrots into the broth, but for a quick weeknight meal, you won’t miss them here. If speed is your game, roll the mixture into 12 large meatballs—or opt for 20 smaller ones if serving kids (mini meatballs will cook through even faster). Either way, finish with a healthy dose of olive oil, lemon, cheese and dill, or any fresh Italian herb you may have on hand."

Yield: 4 servings; Time: 30 minutes

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019925-italian-wedding-soup-with-turkey-meatballs.

Ingredients

12 cups chicken broth

2 tablespoons olive oil, plus additional for greasing and serving

1 pound lean ground turkey

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1/3 packed cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped

1 egg, lightly beaten

3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

3/4 cup orzo, ditalini, acini di pepe or another small soup pasta

3 packed cups baby spinach or kale, thinly sliced

1 lemon, zested and halved

1/4 cup fresh dill, oregano or basil, roughly chopped (optional)

Preparation

Combine the chicken broth and 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, add the turkey, panko, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper and 1/2 cup Parmesan to a large bowl. Mix with a fork or clean hands until combined. Gently roll the mixture into 12 medium (2-inch) or 20 small (1 1/2-inch) meatballs and transfer to a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled aluminum foil or a silicone baking mat.

Heat the broiler to high and set an oven rack 6 to 8 inches from the heat. Broil the meatballs until brown on two sides, turning halfway through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Add the pasta to the boiling broth and cook over medium until al dente, then lower the heat to a low simmer.

Add the meatballs to the broth and simmer on low until completely warmed through, 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat, and add the spinach and lemon zest, stirring well, to wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Divide the soup among four bowls. Drizzle each with olive oil, sprinkle with more Parmesan and squeeze a bit of lemon over the top. Scatter the dill over the top, or stir in.

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1-1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1-3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

Monday, March 3, 2025

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Beef Tortilla Casserole and Italian Wedding Soup with Turkey Meatballs. Enjoy!

GINGERY CHICKEN STEW

This is from Mark Bittman in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this recipe, Mark wrote, "Just 1-1/2 pounds of chicken to serve four people? Yes, because the emphasis is on the winter squash and daikon radish in this stew; unexpected, but substantial. It may seem downright semivegetarian, but the variety of flavors more than makes up for it."

About 1 hour, largely unattended; Yield: 4 servings

To view this yumminess online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1016045-gingery-chicken-stew. While you're at it, please sign up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter. Really great recipes, lots of guides...If you're like me, you won't regret it.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1-1/2 pounds (4 whole bone-in) chicken thighs

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 large onion, chopped

2 cups chopped daikon radish

1/4 cup minced ginger

2 cups vegetable or chicken stock, or water, more as needed

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons lime juice

3 pieces star anise

1-1/2 pounds any winter squash, cut into 1-inch chunks

Preparation

Put the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. When it’s hot, add the chicken, sprinkle with the salt and pepper, and cook, turning the pieces as they release easily from the pan, until they’re well browned on both sides, 8 to 12 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot.

Add the onion, daikon and ginger to the pot and cook until they begin to soften, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the stock, soy sauce, lime juice and star anise and bring to a boil, stirring to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the chicken and adjust the heat so the mixture bubbles gently but steadily.

Cook the chicken, covered, until very tender, about 30 minutes. Stir in the squash. Simmer, stirring occasionally and adding enough stock to keep it from sticking, until the squash is tender but not mushy, 10 to 15 minutes. If you like, remove the chicken thighs, cut the meat from the bones and return it to the pot. Fish out and discard the star anise. Adjust the seasonings to taste and serve.

BEEF TORTILLA CASSEROLE

This comes from Old El Paso, and begins, “An enchilada dinner kit creates a hearty beef casserole that's in the oven in just 20 minutes.”

Prep Time: 20 Minutes; Total Time: 50 Minutes; Makes 6 servings

View this online at https://www.oldelpaso.com/recipes/beef-tortilla-casserole.

Ingredients

1 lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 box (14.2 oz) Old El Paso™ enchilada dinner kit

1/2 cup water

1 can (4.5 oz) Old El Paso™ chopped green chiles

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)

Preparation

Heat oven to 350°F. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef and onion, stirring occasionally, until beef is thoroughly cooked; drain. Stir in both pouches enchilada sauce (from dinner kit), the seasoning mix (from dinner kit), water and chiles; heat until hot.

In ungreased 11x7-inch baking dish, spread 1 cup of the beef mixture. Cut tortillas (from dinner kit) in half. Place 6 tortilla halves on beef; spread with 1/2 cup of the sour cream. Top with 1/2 cup of the cheese, 1 cup of the beef mixture and remaining 6 tortilla halves. Top with remaining sour cream, remaining beef mixture and remaining cheese.

Bake 30 minutes. If desired, serve with additional sour cream, diced red bell pepper and chopped fresh cilantro.

Expert Tips

Serve a tossed salad wtih fruity chunks of pineapple, mango or oranges.

HAWAIIAN MACARONI SALAD

This yummy macaroni salad is from Christin Mahrlig on her very cool site, Spicy Southern Kitchen. If you’ve never heard of her site (or you have, but never checked it out), I suggest you check it out ASAP. Go ahead, I’ll wait…(Tap, tap, tap…).

Anyway, the recipe begins, “Hawaiian Macaroni Salad is so fabulously creamy and simple. This mayonnaise-based pasta salad makes a wonderful side for summer bbqs and picnics.”

Prep Time: 10 mins; Cook Time: 10 mins; Total Time: 20 mins; Servings: 10

To view this online, go to https://spicysouthernkitchen.com/hawaiian-macaroni-salad/.

Ingredients

16 ounces elbow pasta

1/4 cup grated onion

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 cups mayonnaise

1/2 cup whole milk

1 tablespoon sugar

2 shredded carrots

salt and pepper

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoons kosher salt. Cook pasta according to package directions.

Place onion in a large bowl. When pasta is done, drain it well and add it to the bowl. Add garlic powder and apple cider vinegar and stir. Let sit 10 minutes.

In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, milk, and sugar.

Set aside about 1/2 a cup and add the rest to the macaroni along with carrots. Stir to combine. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Cover and refrigerate both the bowl of macaroni salad and the reserved 1/2 a cup of mayonnaise mixture. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Stir in the reserved mayonnaise mixture just before serving.

Recipe Notes

Be sure not to overcook your pasta or it will have a mushy texture.

If you to dress it up some, add diced ham or chopped pineapple.

SLOW-COOKER CHILI MAC ’N CHEESE

This is from Judy Kim on Delish, and begins, “Put in a little bit of prep in the morning, come home to an insanely delish dinner.”

Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes; Prep Time: 20 minutes; Level: Easy; Serves: 4.

According to Delish, “Judy Kim is a NYC-based food stylist, recipe developer, and photographer. She also writes recipes for her website The Judy Lab.”

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

3 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

1 large onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

4 garlic cloves, minced

2 tsp. chili powder

1 tbsp. ground cumin

1 tbsp. cayenne

2 lb. lean ground beef

2 28-oz. cans crushed tomatoes

15 oz. kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1/2 lb. small pasta, such as macaroni or fusilli

2 c. shredded Cheddar

2 c. shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Scallions, jalapeƱo, avocado, cilantro, and sour cream, for garnish

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened. Add chili, cumin, and cayenne until fragrant, 1 minute. Add ground beef and cook until browned.

Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker along with tomatoes and kidney beans and season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low, 6 hours.

When ready to serve, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Add pasta and cheese to slow cooker and stir until melted. Serve with scallions, jalapeƱos, avocado, cilantro, sour cream and cheese.

ITALIAN WEDDING SOUP WITH TURKEY MEATBALLS

This is from Sarah Copeland in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sarah wrote, "Classic Italian wedding soup is beloved for its simplicity and satisfaction. This turkey version is lean, while meatballs stay moist by simmering in broth. Start with the most flavorful broth you can get your hands on (homemade is ideal, but store-bought works well too), then pack the meatballs with flavor (garlic and parsley) and staying power (egg, panko and cheese, to gently bind them together). Traditionalists may be tempted to add a small grated onion to the meat mixture, and sweat celery and carrots into the broth, but for a quick weeknight meal, you won’t miss them here. If speed is your game, roll the mixture into 12 large meatballs—or opt for 20 smaller ones if serving kids (mini meatballs will cook through even faster). Either way, finish with a healthy dose of olive oil, lemon, cheese and dill, or any fresh Italian herb you may have on hand."

Yield: 4 servings; Time: 30 minutes

To view this online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1019925-italian-wedding-soup-with-turkey-meatballs.

Ingredients

12 cups chicken broth

2 tablespoons olive oil, plus additional for greasing and serving

1 pound lean ground turkey

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs

1/3 packed cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped

1 egg, lightly beaten

3 to 4 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

3/4 cup orzo, ditalini, acini di pepe or another small soup pasta

3 packed cups baby spinach or kale, thinly sliced

1 lemon, zested and halved

1/4 cup fresh dill, oregano or basil, roughly chopped (optional)

Preparation

Combine the chicken broth and 2 tablespoons oil in a large pot and bring to a boil.

Meanwhile, add the turkey, panko, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, pepper and 1/2 cup Parmesan to a large bowl. Mix with a fork or clean hands until combined. Gently roll the mixture into 12 medium (2-inch) or 20 small (1 1/2-inch) meatballs and transfer to a baking sheet lined with lightly oiled aluminum foil or a silicone baking mat.

Heat the broiler to high and set an oven rack 6 to 8 inches from the heat. Broil the meatballs until brown on two sides, turning halfway through, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.

Add the pasta to the boiling broth and cook over medium until al dente, then lower the heat to a low simmer.

Add the meatballs to the broth and simmer on low until completely warmed through, 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat, and add the spinach and lemon zest, stirring well, to wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Divide the soup among four bowls. Drizzle each with olive oil, sprinkle with more Parmesan and squeeze a bit of lemon over the top. Scatter the dill over the top, or stir in.

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1-1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1-3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

Friday, February 7, 2025

Friday Recipes

It's finally Friday. Here are six yummy recipes to help you through the weekend, including Sloppy Joes and Spicy Portuguese Beef Steak Kabobs. Enjoy!

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

SLOPPY JOES

This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.

Active Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: East

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/sloppy-joes-2120434.

Ingredients

2 1/2 pounds ground beef

1 large green bell pepper, diced

1/2 large onion, diced

1 1/2 cups ketchup

5 cloves garlic, minced

Hot sauce, such as Tabasco

Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 kaiser rolls

2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons chili powder, or more as needed

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more as needed

2 tablespoons butter, softened

Chips or salad, for serving, if desired

Ingredients

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off the fat.

Add in the green peppers and onions. Stir, and then add 1 cup water, the ketchup and garlic. Stir it around to combine, and then add the brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and then cover and simmer over medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.

To serve, spread the rolls with the butter and brown them on a griddle or in a skillet. Spoon a good amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom roll, and then top with the other half. Serve with chips, salad or just enjoy it by itself.

CHICKEN AND BLACK BEAN ENCHILADAS

This comes from MyRecipes, and begins, "Chipotles can be a touch spicy, but you can use only half of what's called for to decrease heat and still get great smoky flavor."

Hands-on Time: 23 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings (serving size: 2 enchiladas, 2 tablespoons salsa, and 1 tablespoon sour cream)

To view this online, go to .

Ingredients

Cooking spray

1 tablespoon canola oil

1-1/2 cups chopped onion

1 cup chopped poblano chile

5 garlic cloves, minced

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

1 cup unsalted chicken stock

1 tablespoon pureed canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce

2 (8-ounce) cans unsalted tomato sauce

3 cups shredded cooked skinless chicken breast

1 (15.5-ounce) can unsalted black beans, rinsed and drained

4 ounces shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese (about 1 cup)

4 ounces shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup)

16 (6-inch) corn tortillas

1 cup prepared salsa

1/2 cup reduced-fat sour cream

Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Coat a 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, poblano, and garlic; sautƩ 4 minutes or until onion and poblano are tender. Stir in chili powder, cumin, and oregano. Add stock, chipotles, and tomato sauce, and bring to a gentle simmer; cook 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Combine chicken and black beans in a medium bowl; add half of sauce mixture. Combine cheeses in a bowl; add 1/2 cup cheese mixture to chicken mixture. Toss to combine.

Place 8 tortillas on a microwave-safe plate; cover with a slightly damp paper towel. Microwave at HIGH for 45 seconds or until warm. Working with 1 tortilla at a time, place tortilla on a flat work surface; spoon 1/4 cup chicken mixture onto 1 end of tortilla. Roll up, jelly-roll style. Repeat procedure with remaining tortillas, heating up second batch of tortillas when first batch is used up. Arrange enchiladas, seam side down, in prepared dish. Pour remaining sauce over enchiladas; sprinkle with remaining cheese mixture. Bake, uncovered, at 350° for 30 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and cheese is melted and golden brown. Serve enchiladas with salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, if desired.

SPICY PORTUGUESE BEEF STEAK KABOBS

Recipe Yield: Yield: 6 servings

Source: The Beef Checkoff

View this online at https://diabeticgourmet.com/diabetic-recipes/spicy-portuguese-beef-steak-kabobs.

Ingredients

1-1/2 pounds boneless beef top sirloin steak, cut 1-1/4 inches thick

1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 teaspoons hot pepper sauce

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)

Directions

Cut beef steak into 1-1/4-inch pieces. Combine seasoning ingredients in medium bowl. Add beef; toss.

Alternately thread beef and bell pepper onto six 10-inch metal skewers

Place kabobs on grid over medium, ash-covered coals.

Grill, covered, 8 to 10 minutes (over medium heat on preheated gas grill, 9 to 11 minutes) for medium rare (145F) to medium (160F) doneness, turning once.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories: 214; Fat: 11 g; Sodium: 98 mg; Cholesterol: 76 mg; Protein: 26 g; Carbohydrates: 2 g

FRENCH ONION SOUP

This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

7 cups halved and thinly-sliced onions

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons all purpose flour

6 cups low sodium vegetable broth

1/3 cup dry sherry

1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 French bread loaf, cut 1/2" thick slices

10 ounces shredded Jarlsberg or Gruyere cheese

Directions

In large, heavy pot, melt 2 tablespoons butter with oil over medium heat. Stir in onions, sugar, & salt. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute. Reduce heat, cover & cook 10 minutes. Remove lid & cook 15 minutes more, stirring occasionally. Add remaining butter to pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onions are caramelized & very soft, about 15 minutes. Stir in flour & cook 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in broth, sherry, thyme, salt to taste & pepper. Cover & simmer 15 minutes, adding more salt if needed. Preheat broiler. Lightly toast bread slices. Ladle soup into 6 ovenproof bowls or crocks & arrange on baking sheet. Put enough bread on top of each serving, cutting & fitting if necessary to cover soup. Sprinkle bread with shredded cheese. Broil until cheese is bubbly & golden. Serve hot. Serves 8.

CHICKEN PARMESAN POCKETS

Years ago, Fr. Dominic Garramone (AKA the Bread Monk had a show on PBS. I'm sure I'm not the only person who got hooked on his show. Unfortunately, it went off the air years ago. But his cook books are still in circulation, and you can always go to his website (above).

This was one of the recipes on his show.

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

Dough:

2 envelopes FLEISCHMANN’S Active Dry Yeast

1 cup warm water (100 to 110 degrees)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons butter or margarine, softened

1 large egg

3 to 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour

Chicken Filling:

1 cup prepared spaghetti sauce

3/4 teaspoon garlic powder

2-1/4 cups shredded cooked chicken

1 cup chopped green pepper

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1-1/2 cups shredded Mozzarella cheese

Egg Glaze:

1 egg white, lightly beaten

2 teaspoons water

Directions

In large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, sugar, salt, butter, egg and 2 cups flour. Beat 2 minutes at medium speed of electric mixer, scraping bowl occasionally. Stir in enough remaining flour to make soft dough. Knead 8 to 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl, turn to grease top. Cover; let rise in warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 1-1/2 hours.

Punch dough down; let rest 10 minutes. Divide dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece to 6 x 6-inch squares. Combine spaghetti sauce and garlic powder; spread on squares. Top with chicken, pepper, Parmesan cheese and Mozzarella cheese. Fold to form triangles; pinch sides to seal. Place on greased baking sheet. Cover; let rise in warm, draft-free place until doubled in size, about 45 minutes.

Slash tops of pockets. Brush with egg white combined with water. Bake at 375 degrees for 35 minutes or until done. Serve warm.

Monday, February 3, 2025

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Cheesy Skillet Taco Mac and Sweet Potato and Mustard Turkey Burgers. Enjoy!

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1-1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1-3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

SLOPPY JOES

This is from Ree Drummond on the Food Network.

Active Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 45 minutes; Makes 8 servings; Level: East

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ree-drummond/sloppy-joes-2120434.

Ingredients

2 1/2 pounds ground beef

1 large green bell pepper, diced

1/2 large onion, diced

1 1/2 cups ketchup

5 cloves garlic, minced

Hot sauce, such as Tabasco

Worcestershire sauce

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

8 kaiser rolls

2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons chili powder, or more as needed

1 teaspoon dry mustard

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more as needed

2 tablespoons butter, softened

Chips or salad, for serving, if desired

Ingredients

Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Drain off the fat.

Add in the green peppers and onions. Stir, and then add 1 cup water, the ketchup and garlic. Stir it around to combine, and then add the brown sugar, chili powder, dry mustard, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, Worcestershire, salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, and then cover and simmer over medium-low heat, about 20 minutes.

To serve, spread the rolls with the butter and brown them on a griddle or in a skillet. Spoon a good amount of the meat mixture onto the bottom roll, and then top with the other half. Serve with chips, salad or just enjoy it by itself.

MISO CHICKEN

This comes from Sam Sifton in The New York Times cooking e-newsletter. Sam wrote, “Making a compound of unsalted butter and the salty, fungal deliciousness of Japanese miso paste is a surefire way of adding immense flavor to a simple weeknight meal. Here the mixture is spread over chicken thighs, which are then roasted to golden perfection. But you could easily use it on salmon or flounder, on corn or potatoes. The recipe calls for white miso, which is more mild than the aged version known as red miso. But you could certainly use red for a more intense result.” Yield: 4 servings; Time: 45 minutes.

This was featured in Asian Pantry Essentials and can also be found online by clicking here.

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup white miso

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon rice vinegar (do not use seasoned rice vinegar)

Black pepper, to taste

8 skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs, approximately 2 1/2 to 3 pounds

Preparation

Heat oven to 425 degrees. Combine butter, miso, honey, rice vinegar and black pepper in a large bowl and mix with a spatula or spoon until it is well combined.

Add chicken to the bowl and massage the miso-butter mixture all over it. Place the chicken in a single layer in a roasting pan and slide it into the oven. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, turning the chicken pieces over once or twice, until the skin is golden brown and crisp, and the internal temperature of the meat is 160 to 165 degrees.

CHESSY SKILLET TACO MAC

This is from Kardea Brown on the Food Network. The recipe begins, "You may be familiar with that one-skillet macaroni dish that comes in a box where all you have to add is ground beef? Well, this is my version, with a little Tex-Mex twist. The whole family will eat it up, and it's so easy to put together."

Active Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 40 minutes; Makes 4 servings; Level: Easy

View this online at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/cheesy-skillet-taco-mac-12821434.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound ground chuck

1 tablespoon Miss Brown’s House Seasoning, recipe follows

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1-1/2 cups beef stock

8 ounces elbow pasta, cooked according to package directions

One 8-ounce block sharp Cheddar, shredded

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Sour cream and chopped green onions, for serving, optional

Miss Brown’s House Seasoning:

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon paprika

1 tablespoon kosher salt

1 tablespoon freshly ground pepper

Directions

Heat the oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, ground beef and House Seasoning. Cook until the veggies begin to soften and the beef is slightly browned and no longer pink, about 7 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin and beef stock.

Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Reduce the heat to low and cook until the sauce reduces, 5 to 10 minutes. Add the pasta and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the liquid starts to slightly absorb. Add the cheese and remove from the heat. Season with salt and pepper.

To serve, top with the sour cream and sprinkle with the green onions, if using.

Miss Brown’s House Seasoning:

Yield: 5 tablespoons

Stir together the garlic and onion powders, paprika, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.

FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 4 Servings. 1 Serving size = 1 cup. 1 cup fettuccine alfredo provides a 1/2 serving of Benecol®

Ingredients

2 tbsp. Benecol® Regular spread

4 to 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 1/4 cups skim milk

3 tbsp flour

4 ounces fat free cream cheese

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

4 cups hot cooked fettuccine noodles (about 1/2 pound uncooked)

Directions

Heat Benecol & garlic slowly over low heat, 5 to 7 minutes, allowing full flavor of garlic to be released into Benecol.

Meanwhile, combine milk, flour, cream cheese, & Parmesan cheese in blender; then puree until smooth.

Add pureed mixture to Benecol® and garlic. Increase heat to medium-low and whisk continuously until mixture has thickened. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Toss with fettuccine noodles.

SWEET POTATO AND MUSTARD TURKEY BURGERS

This is from Taste for Life, and begins, “These burgers are moist and juicy and have a savory flavor that comes from a secret ingredient: A hefty amount of mustard. Half a cup may seem like a lot of mustard, but it’s what makes these burgers outstanding. Using grated sweet potato instead of traditional flour or breadcrumbs adds extra fiber and nutrients.”

Prep Time: 40 min prep time; Number of Servings: Makes 4 to 6 burgers

Recipe Source: The Living Kitchen by Tamara Green, BA, CNP and Sarah Grossman, BA, CNP ($28, Appetite, 2018)

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

1/2 cup grated yellow onion

1 cup grated peeled sweet potato

1 lb ground turkey

1/2 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

1/3 cup spinach, finely chopped

1/2 cup gluten-free whole-grain mustard

1/2 tsp sea salt

Pinch of black pepper

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Use the grating attachment on your food processor and grate onion and sweet potato. You can also do this by hand with a box grater.

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl until everything is well combined.

Measure 1/4 to 1/2 cup of burger meat and shape into a patty. Place on baking sheet and repeat.

Bake in oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until top begins to get slightly golden. You can flip burgers halfway through cooking time if you want even caramelization on both sides.

These burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 days. You can also make a big batch and keep them in the freezer for 3 to 4 months for a quick meal option.

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Chili

If you love Chili, today's post is sure to please. Check out the Skyline Chili, the Texas Chili, and the rest of today's recipes. Enjoy!

ANY-WAY-YOU-LIKE-IT CHILI

This is from Emma Christensen at TheKitchn. The recipe begins, "There are a million and one ways to make chili. All of them are excellent and all of them are sure to satisfy a large crowd of hungry people. Whether you like your chili with ground meat or chuck roast, pinto beans or no beans at all, the basic method for making it is the same. Want to make a very good pot of chili? Here’s how.

"Tips for Good Chili

"If you’re using meat, slow cook it. At its core, a chili is just another kind of braised dish. Even if you are using ground meat, you’re typically cooking tough, lean cuts that need some time to become tender. Simmer them gently in a fair amount of liquid, and after an hour or so, the meat is no longer chewy and instead becomes totally tender. The slow-cooking meat also turns a thin, soupy broth into something silky and substantive.

"Add the tomatoes at the end. After reading a few perspectives on how acidic ingredients can slow, or even prevent, meat from becoming tender, I’ve become a proponent of adding the tomatoes toward the end of cooking the chili. This might seem strange, but trust me: it all comes together just fine in the end.

"Make it your own. There is a heck of a lot of room to play here, so use this “recipe” more as a template. The exact ingredients you use from batch to batch can change; the only thing that stays the same is slow-cooking and a tasty reward at the end."

Serves: 8 to 10

To view this online, go to https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-chili-cooking-lessons-from-thekitchn-109352.

Ingredients

1 to 1-1/2 pounds ground meat or chuck roast (beef, buffalo, turkey or other) or vegetarian protein (tofu, Boca crumbles, or other) — slice roasts into cubes

1 large onion, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 green bell pepper, diced

1 to 2 other vegetables (like celery, carrots, or zucchini), diced (optional)

2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings (choose 2-3): 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 tablespoon ground chipotle peppers, 1/2 teaspoon cayenne

2 teaspoons salt, plus more to taste

1 cup amber or brown ale or red wine

3 cups chicken, vegetable, or beef broth

1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes

3 cups (2 16-oz cans) cooked black beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans

1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (optional)

To serve: Shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocados, chopped scallions, hot sauce, chopped cilantro

Equipment

Sharp knife

Cutting board

Large Dutch oven or soup pot

Instructions

Brown the meat. If using meat, warm a teaspoon of oil in a large heavy Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat and brown the meat. Break up ground meat as it browns, leaving pieces as large or small as you like them. If you're using chuck roast, make sure all sides of the beef cubes are seared dark brown. Transfer the browned meat from the pot to a clean dish.

If you're making a vegetarian chili with tofu or other protein, add it along with the beans in Step 6. Reduce the amount of stock and the cooking time by half.

Cook the vegetables. In the same pot used to brown the meat, warm a tablespoon of oil over medium to medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the other vegetables and continue to cook until softened, another 5-8 minutes. Clear a space in the middle of the pan and add the garlic. Cook the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, then stir into the vegetables. It's normal for a dark sticky crust to start forming on the bottom of the pan.

Add the seasonings. Add the seasonings and 2 teaspoons of salt to the pan. Stir until the vegetables are coated and the spices are fragrant, another 30 seconds.

Deglaze the pan. Pour the beer or wine into the hot pan. Scrape up the dark sticky crust as the liquid bubbles. Continue scraping and stirring until the beer or wine has almost evaporated.

Add the broth and simmer. Add the browned meat back into the pan. Pour in the broth. Bring the chili to a simmer and cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat has is very tender (cubes of chuck roast may take a bit longer). The chili will still look soupy.

Add the tomatoes and beans to the chili. Add the tomatoes, beans, corn (if using), and vegetarian protein (if using) to the pot. Simmer for another 10 minutes. Taste and add more seasonings or salt to taste.

Serve with garnishes. Chili is often best the day after it's been cooked. It will also keep for up to a week and freezes well for up to three months. Serve with cheese and other garnishes.

TEXAS-STYLE CHILI

This is from Juila Moskin in The New York Times cooking email. Julia wrote, “Calling a dish ‘Texas Chili,’ especially if you’re not a native of that state, is clearly asking for trouble. But this recipe, refined over years of potlucks and Super Bowl parties, is too good to keep under wraps. Its depth of flavor, from different chile types, makes this recipe stand out. It also has whole spices, unsweetened chocolate and dark beer that meld seamlessly into a brick-red sauce that naps the succulent meat. The meat can be cut into large chunks, or, more traditionally, thin slices, especially if you are using a tougher cut than chuck. Sirloin also makes good chili. If you have masa harina, the corn flour used to make tortillas, that will make the gravy even thicker, but it is not necessary. Like many vigorously spiced dishes, this one tastes even better a day or two after it is made and will hold its flavor well for at least a week.”

Yield: 12 servings; Time: 2 hours.

This was featured in “Texas Chili Makes a Welcome Guest” and can be viewed online here.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon whole cumin seeds

1 1/2 teaspoons whole coriander seeds

4 pounds beef chuck roast or steak

1 teaspoon salt, more to taste

3 tablespoons vegetable oil, plus extra as needed

1 large yellow or white onion, chopped, plus extra chopped onion for serving

6 large garlic cloves, minced

4 to 7 large fresh green jalapeƱos (depending on how much heat you like), stemmed, seeded and chopped

3 tablespoons masa harina or 1 corn tortilla, torn into pieces (optional)

2 tablespoons ground pure chile powder, such as pasilla, Chimayo or ancho

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 (12-ounce) bottle Negra Modelo beer

1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes, or 3 10-ounce cans Ro-Tel canned tomatoes with green chiles

1 ounce unsweetened chocolate

3 whole dried large red chiles, such as New Mexico or guajillo

Chopped fresh cilantro, for serving

Fritos or warmed flour tortillas, for serving

Preparation

In a small heavy skillet, toast cumin and coriander seeds until fragrant. In a mortar and pestle, or in a coffee grinder, grind to a powder and set aside.

Meanwhile, roughly cut beef into 2-inch cubes, or slice it against the grain into pieces about 1/4-inch thick by 1 1/2 inches square. Sprinkle with salt.

In a large, heavy pot over high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Working in batches to avoid crowding the pan, brown the meat, turning occasionally until crusty. Adjust heat to prevent scorching. As it is cooked, remove the meat to drain on paper towels. Add more oil as needed for browning, but do not clean out the pot.

To the empty but crusty pot, add onion, garlic, jalapeƱos, masa harina or tortilla (if using), chile powder, cumin-coriander powder and oregano. Cook, stirring, until onion has softened, 5 to 10 minutes. Add meat, beer, tomatoes, chocolate, whole dried chiles and 1 quart water. Bring to a gentle simmer and simmer about 1 1/2 hours, or until meat is fork-tender. Remove the dried chiles. Taste and add salt if necessary.

Serve immediately or let cool and refrigerate. The chili tastes best one or two days after it is made.

Reheat over low heat if necessary and serve in bowls, sprinkled with chopped onion and cilantro. Add Fritos for crunch, or dip tortillas into the spicy gravy.

BEEF CHILI

This yummy chili recipe is from Tyler Florence on The Food Network. Prep Time: 30 minutes; Cooki Time: 2 hours 15 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes; Yield: 6 to 8 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/tyler-florence/beef-chili-recipe-1937323.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil

3 pounds beef shoulder, cut into large cubes

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 tablespoons ancho chili powder

1 tablespoons ground coriander

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon sweet paprika

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 onions, diced

10 garlic cloves, halved

3 canned chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped

1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped

1 teaspoon sugar

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 (28-ounce) can whole tomatoes, crushed by hand

1/2 cup masa harina

3 cups shredded white Cheddar, for garnish

2 bunches chopped chives, for garnish

1 1/2 cups sour cream, for garnish

Ingredients

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil. Season the beef shoulder all over with salt and pepper, add it to the pot and brown it. As it's browning stir in the chili powder, coriander, cumin, paprika, oregano and cinnamon. Lower the temperature under the meat to "toast" the spices. In a food processor puree the onions, garlic, chipotle peppers, jalapeno, tomato paste and sugar and add it to the pot. Increase the heat to medium to steam vegetables a little and sweeten the peppers. Add enough water to cover by 1 inch, about 1 quart, and add tomatoes with their liquid. Bring to a boil and skim off any foam that rises to the surface. Reduce the heat and simmer until the meat is fork-tender and comes apart with no resistance, about 2 hours. As it cooks down, add more water, if necessary. When done, stir in the masa harina. Take a potato masher and mash the chili so the meat comes apart in shreds. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Garnish each serving with the shredded Cheddar, chives, and sour cream.

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

TEXAS CHILI

This is one of my dad’s recipes. Whenever Dad fixed this, he’d have to make 2 batches of chili: this for those brave enough to try it, another for everyone else, somewhat cooler.

This can be found in my e-cookbook, Off the Wall Cooking.

Ingredients

3 balls ground beef suet

4 slices back, cut

2 lbs. stew beef, cut small

2 lbs. chopped chuck

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 T paprika

1 tsp. oregano

3/4 tsp. cumin

1 2/3 T salt

3/4 tsp. black pepper

1/4 tsp. cayenne

6 – 9 T chili powder

2 – 4 walnut-size pieces suet

2 Bermuda onions

1 can beef broth

3 cans measured water

6 C tomatoes & juice

1 1/2 lbs. drained kidney beans

Directions

In heavy pot place 3 balls suet with bacon. Cook out fat. Add and brown beef and chopped chuck. After browning, add garlic. Cook lightly. Add remainder of spices. In another pot, heat 2-4 pieces of suet. Add onions. Cook until almost burned. Add to meat pot. Deglaze pot with meat broth. Add water, tomatoes & juice. Mash tomatoes into chili. Cover and simmer slowly 1 1/2 – 2 hours. Uncover. Cook down for about 1/2 hour, adding kidney beans. Serves 6-8.

SKYLINE CHILI

This is from Marbalet at Allrecipes. It begins, "This hearty skyline chili is sure to warm up appetites."

Prep Time: 10 minute; Cook Time: 12 hours; Total Time: 12 hours 10 minutes; Makes 6 servings

To view this online, go to https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/13167/skyline-chili-i/.

Ingredients

2-1/2 pounds lean ground beef

1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce

1-1/3 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste

5 tablespoons chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground allspice

1-1/4 teaspoons salt

1 tablespoon distilled white vinegar

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion salt

2 teaspoons steak sauce

1 quart water

Directions

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until lightly browned, 5 to 6 minutes. Transfer to a crock pot.

Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, chili powder, cinnamon, allspice, salt, vinegar, pepper, garlic powder, onion salt, steak sauce, and water to the crock pot; mix well.

Cook on Low for 12 hours.

Monday, December 2, 2024

Double-Post Monday

Besides being Meatless Monday, it's also Double-Post Monday. Today's offerings include Three-Cheese Beef Pasta Shells and California Turkey Chili. Enjoy!

THE PIONEER WOMAN'S CHICKEN TORTELLINI SOUP

This is from Sara Haas at allrecipes. Sara wrote, "I love summer—the warmth, the seemingly endless daylight, and all of the produce that goes with it. It brings me so much joy. That’s why I’m always a little bit sad when summer leaves and fall slides in. Fortunately, I have soup to console me. And I can thank The Pioneer Woman for my first soup of this fall season—Ree Drummond approved."

To read the entire recipe intro from Sara, as well as view this online, click here.

Recipe adapted from The Pioneer Woman. Serves 6.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced

4 stalks celery, sliced

1 small yellow onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

3 quarts low-sodium chicken broth

3 1/2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

1 (20-ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini

1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Optional: Parmesan rind

Directions

Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and onion, and cook, stirring often until softened, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

Pour in broth and bring to a boil.

Add chicken and tortellini, and cook, stirring occasionally until chicken is warmed through and tortellini are tender, 3 to 5 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice. Portion into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and parsley.

Tips

Try this: Let the soup cook (before adding the chicken and tortellini) over low heat with the lid on to develop more flavor. An extra 20 to 30 minutes really helps make this soup even more delicious. While you’re at it, add that Parmesan rind too! Just remember to take it out before serving.

CALIFORNIA TURKEY CHILI

This is from Giada De Laurentiis on the Food Network. Prep Time: 1 hour; Inactive Time: 10 minutes; Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes; Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes; Yield: 4 servings; Level: Intermediate

To view this online, go to https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/california-turkey-chili-recipe-2014996.

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

4 large cloves garlic, smashed, peeled and chopped

2 large poblano chiles, stemmed, seeded and diced

1 celery stalk, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

1-1/2 pounds ground turkey (dark meat)

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

4 tablespoons tomato paste

3 tablespoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons (packed) dark brown sugar

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano, crushed

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

3 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

One 15 to 16-ounce can cannellini (white kidney beans), rinsed and drained

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf, recipe follows

Assorted garnishes, such as chopped onion, shredded white Cheddar, chopped tomatoes and/or sour cream

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

1 1/4 cups whole grain quinoa (about 7 ounces)

1 3/4 cups low-salt chicken broth (preferably organic)

1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro or Italian parsley

1/3 cup pine nuts

Directions

Heat the oil in a heavy, large pot over medium-high heat. Add the garlic, poblanos, celery and onions. Saute until the vegetables soften, 5 to 6 minutes. Add the turkey and saute until no longer pink, breaking up the turkey with the back of a spoon, about 7 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over and stir to blend. Add the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, sugar, oregano, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, cinnamon and cloves. Cook 1 to 2 minutes, stirring to blend. Add the broth and beans. Bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the flavors blend and the chili thickens to desired consistency, stirring often, 20 to 30 minutes. Season with more salt and pepper.

To serve, spoon Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf into deep bowls. Ladle chili over. Serve with garnishes.

Cook's Note: Other garnishes that you could offer: chopped radishes, pickled jalapenos, crumbled cotija cheese, tortilla chips and/or pico de gallo.

Simplest Quinoa and Pine Nut Pilaf:

Place the quinoa in a fine sieve. Rinse under cold running water 1 full minute. Set aside to drain.

Bring the broth, salt and pepper to a boil in heavy, medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the quinoa. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer until the quinoa is tender and all the broth is absorbed, about 15 minutes. Turn off the heat. Let the quinoa stand, still covered, for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Scatter pine nuts on a small rimmed baking sheet. Toast the nuts until golden, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet.

Mix the cilantro and pine nuts into the quinoa.

THREE-CHEESE BEEF PASTA SHELLS

This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "These Three-Cheese Beef Pasta Shells can be ready to impress in no time at all. Perfect for company and cozy nights at home, this hearty dish only looks like you spent all day in the kitchen. In fact, you can pull stuffed pasta shells with ground beef together with just 25 minutes of prep time, then get the rest of the meal ready while it bakes. These stuffed shells with cream cheese, ground beef, melty cheese and pasta sauce bring a whole new meaning to the term "comfort food." No matter the occasion, nothing satisfies quite like a warm dish of Three-Cheese Beef Pasta Shells."

Prep Time: 25 minutes; Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes; Servings: 8

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

24 uncooked jumbo pasta shells

1 lb ground beef (at least 80% lean)

1 jar (25.5 oz) Muir Glen™ organic chunky tomato & herb pasta sauce

1/4 cup water

1 container (8 oz) chive and onion cream cheese spread

1-1/2 cups shredded Italian cheese blend (6 oz)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 egg

1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, if desired

Instructions

Heat oven to 350°F. Cook and drain pasta shells as directed on package.

In 10-inch skillet, cook beef over medium-high heat 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly cooked; drain. Cool slightly, about 5 minutes.

In large bowl, mix pasta sauce and water. Pour 1 cup of the pasta sauce mixture in bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish. In medium bowl, mix cheese spread, 1 cup of the Italian cheese, the Parmesan cheese, egg and cooked beef. Spoon heaping tablespoon mixture into each shell. Arrange stuffed shells over sauce in baking dish. Pour remaining sauce over top, covering shells completely. Cover with foil.

Bake 40 to 45 minutes or until bubbly and cheese filling is set. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup Italian cheese. Bake uncovered about 10 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with parsley.

IMPOSSIBLY EASY CHICKEN AND BROCCOLI PIE

This is from Betty Crocker, and begins, "Frozen broccoli provides a simple addition to this impossibly easy chicken pie – a cheesy flavorful dinner!"

Prep Time: 10 minutes; Total Time: 55 minutes; Servings: 7

To view this online, click here.

Ingredients

2 cups Frozen Broccoli Cuts, thawed, drained

1-1/2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese (6 oz)

1 cup cut-up cooked chicken or 2 cans (5 oz each) chunk chicken, well drained

1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)

1/2 cup Original Bisquick™ mix

1 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper

2 eggs

Instructions

Heat oven to 400°F. Spray 9-inch glass pie plate with cooking spray. Sprinkle broccoli, 1 cup of the cheese, the chicken and onion in pie plate.

In medium bowl, stir remaining ingredients with wire whisk or fork until blended. Pour into pie plate.

Bake 35 to 38 minutes or until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake 1 to 2 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

FETTUCCINE ALFREDO

This is from the infamous long-since-forgotten emailing list. Makes 4 Servings. 1 Serving size = 1 cup. 1 cup fettuccine alfredo provides a 1/2 serving of Benecol®

Ingredients

2 tbsp. Benecol® Regular spread

4 to 5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 1/4 cups skim milk

3 tbsp flour

4 ounces fat free cream cheese

1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

4 cups hot cooked fettuccine noodles (about 1/2 pound uncooked)

Directions

Heat Benecol & garlic slowly over low heat, 5 to 7 minutes, allowing full flavor of garlic to be released into Benecol.

Meanwhile, combine milk, flour, cream cheese, & Parmesan cheese in blender; then puree until smooth.

Add pureed mixture to Benecol® and garlic. Increase heat to medium-low and whisk continuously until mixture has thickened. Add freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Toss with fettuccine noodles.

BAKED SPAGHETTI

This is from Lidey Heuck in The New York Times cooking enewsletter. For this yummy recipe, Lidey wrote, "This comforting baked pasta feeds a crowd and is an easy way to upgrade everyday spaghetti with meat sauce. Once baked, the spaghetti casserole slices into neat squares, and the layer of ricotta and Parmesan filling give it the rich flavor of a lasagna. Feel free to play around with the recipe, swapping in Italian sausage or ground turkey for the ground beef and sautĆ©ing leftover vegetables and adding them to the sauce. If you’re planning in advance, you can assemble the casserole (through the end of Step 5) and store in the refrigerator, covered, until ready to bake."

Time: 1-1/2 hours, plus cooling; Yield: 8 servings

To view this yumminess online, go to https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1024351-baked-spaghetti. While you're at it, please sign up for The New York Times cooking enewsletter, if you haven't already.

Ingredients

Unsalted butter, for greasing the pan

Kosher salt (such as Diamond Crystal) and black pepper

1 pound spaghetti

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large yellow onion, chopped

2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 5 cloves)

2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme or rosemary, or 1 teaspoon dried

1-1/2 teaspoons dried oregano, plus more for serving

1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes, plus more to taste

1 pound ground beef (at least 85-percent lean)

1 (32- to 35-ounce) jar marinara sauce

1/2 cup fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped, plus more for serving

1 cup/8 ounces ricotta cheese

3/4 cup grated Parmesan

1 large egg

2 cups/8 ounces shredded low-moisture mozzarella

Preparation

Step 1

Heat the oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish with butter. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until 1 minute shy of al dente.

Step 2

While the water comes to a boil, heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, 6 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic, thyme, oregano, red-pepper flakes, 1-1/2 teaspoons salt and a few grinds of black pepper, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 3

Add the beef and cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes. Turn off the heat and stir in the marinara sauce and basil. Drain the spaghetti, add it to the sauce and toss well.

Step 4

In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, 1/2 cup of the Parmesan, the egg and ¼ teaspoon salt. Mix with a fork until smooth.

Step 5

Transfer half the pasta and sauce to the prepared baking dish and smooth it into an even layer. Dollop the ricotta mixture onto the pasta in large spoonfuls, then sprinkle 1 cup of the mozzarella on top. Add the rest of the pasta and sauce to the pan, again smoothing it into an even layer.

Step 6

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake for 40 minutes. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup mozzarella and the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan on top, then bake, uncovered, until the mozzarella has melted, 5 to 10 minutes more.

Step 7

Cool for 5 minutes, then serve with more chopped basil, a pinch of dried oregano and more red-pepper flakes, if desired. Slice the baked spaghetti into large squares and serve hot or warm.