INGREDIENTS
We really weren’t sure what to call this dish, it has a bit of an identity crisis. It’s a cross between a really great chili and a hearty soup yet has elements of a good stew. Serve it with a simple salad of garden lettuces. It’s very hearty so don’t feel like you need a bunch of side dishes.
Shortcut Chef
This is another great dish to make and freeze and as you know by now, it takes very little effort to cook a double batch so if your life is hectic and you could use a break next week, make a double batch already.
From Mom’s Lips To Your Ears
Cooking times in recipes are highly debatable. If you’ve got a hair appointment, lower the heat, get your hair done and come home to a pot of stew you hope hasn’t burned. On the other hand if you’re in a hurry, crank up the heat, pay attention to what you’re doing and cook it less.
In a 3-quart pot, heat oil over medium high heat. Add meat and brown on all sides stirring often, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to medium, add onions and chili powder and cook until onions soften, about 7 – 10 minutes more. You may need to add a splash of water if the onions are in danger of burning.
Add tomatoes, salt and pepper to taste and cook on low for about 30 minutes. Add the beans and corn and cook 20 minutes more or until you’re starving and can’t wait another minute. Taste and adjust seasonings.
Who needs part of a can of tomatoes hanging around in the refrigerator and why do recipes call for partial cans? What is that about? When a recipe calls for part of a can, look at the recipe give it a thought and decide whether you’d like to throw it out, watch it mold or if you’d like more sauce. I usually like extra sauce so I throw in the whole can. This will not work in the case of butter, however. Remember this is just dinner. It’s only food. Recipes don’t have to be followed to the letter. Go with your instincts.
Up the good calories
Add shelled edamame (soy bean pods). They look like large frozen peas and are an excellent source of protein. You can use them instead of or in addition to the corn.
© 2008 MSNBC Interactive
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