Cold Days deserve some Hot Chili

What's up with all this snow? I'm ready to put away the sweaters, but for now making a warm bowl of chilli will do. I mixed a few recipes together to get a chili that is packed with more veggies!



4tsp. olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lb. ground beef (or turkey)
1 c. celery, chopped
1 c. mixed color bell peppers, chopped
1-2 carrots, grated
2x 10oz. canned tomatoes (reserve liquid)
12oz. kidney beans (drained & rinsed)
12oz. pinto beans (drained & rinsed)
2 bay leaves
1-2 T chilli powder
1/8tsp cayenne peper (or more if you want a nice kick)
1 tsp. oregano
1/4 tsp cumin
salt and pepper to taste

1. In skillet heat oil, add onions, celery, bell pepper and carrots saute till fragrant and soft. Then add ground beef, cook until brown.
2. Heat tomatoes and beans in large pot until there is a light boil, add beef & veggie mixture, spices and garlic. Check the seasonings and adjust if needed. Simmer for around 30min on low heat. (The longer the better) If consistency is too thick add water. Chilli is better the next day allowing for all the flavors to mix in!
3. Serve with sour cream (reduced-fat), cheese, avocado, bread......mmmm