Make Quick Chili

Everyone is busy nowadays, and cooking is often something that people don't like to spend much time on. So, how about a meal that tastes like it has been cooking for hours, is good for you, and is easy on the pocketbook but will only take you 20 minutes to make? This delicious chili recipe is all of these things, and more.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) ground meat (you can use beef, turkey, veal, or a mixture)
  • 1 large jar of salsa, or 2 small ones (if you want spicy chili, use extra spicy salsa, if you want mild chili, use medium salsa)
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • 1-2 cans of beans, pinto, or kidney beans or any kind you like. Some people prefer chili without beans, but beans are a wonderful source of inexpensive protein.
  • 1-2 cans mushrooms (optional)
  • 1 can corn (optional)

Steps

  1. Brown the meat. Do this right in the bottom of the chili pot or large pan. This will save time, save you from washing another pan, and make the whole dish taste better. If you have the time, you can also chop up some peppers and onions and add them in the meat.
  2. While the meat is browning, open the cans and jars from the rest of the ingredients. Drain the liquid from the mushrooms and corn.
  3. Once the meat is browned, drain off any excess fat and add any dry seasonings.
  4. Add all of the other ingredients. It doesn't matter what order, just get them all in the pot or large pan.
  5. Stir, stir, stir. Get everything mixed together, and continue heating until warmed through.
  6. Serve and enjoy. Add some crusty bread, a salad, or anything else you'd fancy and the meal is complete.



Tips

  • This chili also freezes well. If you make too much, (or would like to have more ready), you can freeze it, in airtight containers, for up to 4 weeks.
  • You can always modify a recipe, and add things you like, or take out what you don't like.
  • Chili often tastes better the day after it's cooked. try making it the night before you want it, then re-heat and serve.
  • Instead of salsa, you can use one can of diced tomatoes or diced tomatoes and green chilies and one package of any brand of taco seasoning. Instead of taco seasoning, you might try 1 tablespoon of chili powder and 1/2 tablespoon of cumin. You may add other spices, such as flaked/dried red pepper, but go gently, a little spice goes a long way!
  • Add whole wheat garlic bread, and a salad, to make a healthy delicious meal.

Warnings

  • Be careful when handling hot food; keep handles turned away from the edge.
  • Watch out for sharp covers from the cans.

Things You'll Need

  • A heat source, either a kitchen stove, or a campfire
  • A large cooking pot or very large frying pan/skillet
  • A can opener
  • A big stirring spoon
  • Friends and family to share your chili with

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