High Protein Low Fat Turkey Chili

Not long ago I invited some deeply spiritual friends to my home...you know the type, the Shaman and Hypnotherapy Guru. Well, of course standard fair red meat chili did seem appropriate so I altered my great tasting 'Hamburger and Black Bean Chili' recipe to include ground turkey.

The comments I received were rewarding.

For eight servings you will need:

2 tablespoons virgin olive oil

2 pounds of turkey burger (the fresher the better)

2 cans of chili beans

2 cans of black beans

1 quart home canned organic tomatoes or two large cans of seasoned tomatoes

2 tablespoons prepared mustard

2 teaspoons garlic granules or 2 cloves fresh garlic (to taste)

1 small white onion chopped

4 fresh chilies or two jalapeño peppers (peppers if you like it a bit hotter) or both

Salt and pepper to taste

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Brown turkey in olive oil in a 3 quart non-stick pan or cast iron Dutch oven and drain off liquid or simmer uncovered until liquid evaporates. Browner (crisper) meat adds more meat flavor.

Add tomatoes, beans, and spices and simmer on low for 1 ½ hours sprinkle with a little cheese and serve.

I like to serve chili with a loaf of crusty bread or tortilla chips and a glass of rich aromatic Merlot wine if the occasion warrants. Remember deep red wines add anti-oxidants and heart healthy Resveratrol. Olive oil provides essential polyphenols and turkey provides the essential amino acid L-Tryptophan plus many important minerals.