A Working Mom's Meal Plan

The hardest part of my day is when we get home and everyone is immediately hungry. I love to cook and prefer
home-cooked meals, but I don't like to cook much during the work week. And yet, dinner has to get on the table...
My solution: make-ahead meals, freeze-ahead meals and recipes so easy that I'll make them on a Monday. I cook
mostly on the weekends, always doubling recipes, and rely heavily on my extra freezer and a decently-stocked pantry.
This cooking style saves me time and money, and it makes my life simpler—so I can actually enjoy sitting down
to supper at 6 with my family. I hope these recipes will make the witching hour a little better at your house too.

Friday, February 4, 2011

Turkey and Veggie Chili

Don't be scared off by the long ingredient list—it's simple to make, and the zucchini gives it a surprisingly hearty feel. (adapted from allrecipes.com)

3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 1/2 lbs ground turkey
packet of taco seasoning mix
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can beef broth
jar of salsa
large can crushed tomatoes
1 can kidney beans, drained/rinsed
7 oz can diced green chiles
1 onion, chopped
1 green pepper, diced
3 zucchinis, quartered and diced
diced scallions, from one bunch
sour cream and shredded cheddar, for serving

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large pot. Cook ground turkey with seasoning mix, spices and tomato paste. Pour in broth and simmer for 5 minutes. Add salsa, crushed tomatoes, beans and chiles and simmer 10 more minutes.

While simmering, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil in skillet and saute onion, green pepper and zucchini, about 6-8 minutes. Add to chili and cook 15 more minutes. Thin with more broth or water to taste, if needed.

*Freezes well, and is even better made a day ahead. Serve with biscuits.

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