Learning to Cook

I have always been surrounded by wonderful cooks and bakers. While this has been delightful for my taste buds, I always wondered if I would ever be able to cook like them. When I lived in Brazil, I was forced to learn how to cook because the ingredients at my disposal were so different. The experience was, at first, frustrating. But, once I began to experiment, the world of cooking opened up to me. My recipe box is now brimming, and I thought others might be interested in trying some of the recipes I have found. I haven’t tried them all yet, but I plan to in the future! I hope you enjoy, and please feel free to add your own suggestions/comments.

Monday, July 30, 2007

Lentil Chili


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

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

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

1 hour 15 min prep
8-10 servings
Calculated for 1 serving (382g)
Recipe makes 8 servings

Calories 314
Calories from Fat 58 (18%)
Amount Per Serving %DV
Total Fat 6.5g 9%
Saturated Fat 1.6g 8%
Polyunsat. Fat 1.7g
Monounsat. Fat 2.3g
Trans Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 44mg 14%
Sodium 890mg 37%
Potassium 1041mg 29%
Total Carbohydrate 37.7g 12%
Dietary Fiber 16.5g 65%
Sugars 5.7g
Protein 26.8g 53%

From: http://www.recipezaar.com/199210

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