Who knew that two Coloradans could be such wimps in the chilly fall temps of the Chesapeake Bay? Yes - we have enjoyed the birds and lighthouses of the bay, and even visited Washington, D.C. Now it's time to head south...and get warm.
Needing a One-bowl Dinner
When we're underway, it's a challenge to make warm, nourishing meals while the boat is bouncing. Crockpot chili has always been a favorite after a day of skiing, but I need a recipe that comes together easily without 8-hours of cooking in a slow cooker. Aboard Snowcat we use solar power so appliances that have to be plugged in are off limits.
Chili Upgrades
I've been tweaking my chili recipe to make it healthier and still easy to prepare. Here are a few of my recipe upgrades:
Added vegetables - chunks of sweet potato add an interesting texture and nutritional boost
Drain and rinse canned beans - convenient canned beans that have been rinsed and drained have 40% less sodium than regular canned beans
Extra beans, less meat - adding beans increases the fiber and lowers the calories compared to traditional no-bean chili recipes
Bring on the heat - easily add spiciness to your chili with your favorite salsa
My special chili ingredients are sweet potatoes and salsa. What makes your chili recipe stand out? This recipe is a work in progress, so leave a comment if you give it a try or have suggestions for other additions.
When the weather gets cold, you can easily make a pot of this chili from items that you usually have in your pantry and freezer.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Servings: 8servings
Author: Karen
Ingredients
1poundlean ground beef
1medium oniondiced
2clovesgarlicminced
2tablespoonschili powder
2teaspoonscumin
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
2cupslow sodium beef broth
115-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
115-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
128-ounce can chopped tomatoes, including juice
2cupssalsause your favorite tomato/green chili salsa
1mediumsweet potatopeeled and diced
1cupred wine
16-ounce can tomato paste
salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a large pot over medium heat, begin browning the meat.
After about 5 minutes add onion and garlic, continue cooking until the meat is browned and the onions are translucent. If the meat is lean you may need to add a tablespoon of canola oil during this step.
Add chili powder, cumin and paprika to the mixture and continue cooking over medium heat for one more minute. This process will enhance the flavor of the spices.
Add broth, drained and rinsed beans, tomatoes (including their juices), salsa, wine and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
Roughly chop the peeled sweet potato into ¼- to ½-inch chunks, and then add them to the chili.
Simmer for 30-40 minutes then serve.
Notes
This good-for-you chili has more vegetables and high-fiber beans than traditional chili.Canned beans are a convenient source of fiber. Draining and rinsing the beans removes about 40% of their sodium.The addition of chunks of sweet potato adds a boost of nutrients and an interesting texture.
I always love your recipes Karen. This sounds easy and a winner taste and health wise. In Sedona these days the temperature is cooling down and the skies are sunny! I love it! This weekend will be a good time to to make chili. I look forward to learning more from you and Dean as I read your blogs!!! Safe and happy travels!
Great hearing from you Jamie! I hear that you might be getting snow in the boat for Halloween. Stay warm and we’ll try to do the same. I’m sorry we couldn’t have you aboard Snowcat while we were in Washington. It is a fascinating town, so I hope you can reschedule your trip. K
Nancy Haimbaugh says
I always love your recipes Karen. This sounds easy and a winner taste and health wise. In Sedona these days the temperature is cooling down and the skies are sunny! I love it! This weekend will be a good time to to make chili. I look forward to learning more from you and Dean as I read your blogs!!! Safe and happy travels!
Karen says
Have you had a chance to make the chili? It’s good to know that you are back in Sedona and settling into your cozy cottage. Stay in touch!
Jamey Wening says
Anxious to give it a try. Wishing you calm seas, sunny skies and warm temps. It’s supposed to be pretty chilly here for the next few days.
Karen says
Great hearing from you Jamie! I hear that you might be getting snow in the boat for Halloween. Stay warm and we’ll try to do the same. I’m sorry we couldn’t have you aboard Snowcat while we were in Washington. It is a fascinating town, so I hope you can reschedule your trip. K