The Mailbox: Vegetarian chili is flavorful
If your goal for the New Year is to eat healthier, you may want to try this recipe that was requested by Rebecca Rogers of Bloomington, Ind.
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Vegetarian chili
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serves 8 to 10
Michele Murphy of Rancho Murieta shares this recipe that would be good with a salad and crusty bread.
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium red onion, chopped into ½-inch dice
2 green bell peppers, chopped into ½-inch dice
1 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into ½-inch dice
6 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
Two 28-ounce cans diced tomatoes, including juice
Three 15-ounce cans kidney beans, undrained
1 cup corn, fresh or frozen
2 cups vegetable broth
4 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon cocoa powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup masa harina, optional
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar, optional
Garnishes: Hot sauce, sour cream, sliced scallions, shredded cheeses
In a 5-quart Dutch oven or stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, peppers and sweet potatoes. Increase heat to medium-high and sauté vegetables for 8 minutes, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium-low.
Add garlic, tomatoes, beans, corn, broth and spices (including cocoa powder). Stir, cover and cook for 35 minutes, stirring occasionally.
If using masa harina: Mix masa harina with ½ cup water in a small bowl. After chili has cooked for 25 minutes, add masa harina mixture to thicken. Cook an additional 10 minutes. Stir in balsamic vinegar, if using.
Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Divide chili into individual bowl and garnish with desired toppings.
This story was originally published January 5, 2015 at 2:00 AM with the headline "The Mailbox: Vegetarian chili is flavorful."