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This recipe is adapted from a friend's "Atomic Chili" recipe. I bulked up on the veggies, substituted healthier meats, and toned down the spice; the result is a super-tasty chili that is also one of the easiest and healthiest meals you'll ever make. It also doesn't hurt that it's very easy, and almost impossible to mess up.The beauty of a chili recipe is that you can tweak it to meet your taste preferences, dietary requirements, and creativity.

For instance, in this recipe, some people might find the idea of pumpkin strange; if so, omit it. It's not necessary (you can't even taste it), but it does add some great fiber and vitamin A. If you prefer a spicier chili, double the jalapenos and add a quarter cup of Tabasco sauce.

This recipe freezes well; however, I rarely get a chance to freeze it. It's one of the few meals my family and I don't mind eating every night for a week.

Vegetables:

1-2 medium onions, diced

1 red pepper, diced

1 green pepper, diced

1 bag shredded carrots (or shredded broccoli if you prefer)

2 tbsp chili garlic sauce (if you don't have this available, plain old chopped garlic works too)

Meat:

1 - 1.5 pounds lean ground turkey (or chicken, if you prefer)

Base:

One large can (28 oz.) chopped tomato, preferably no-salt-added.

One small can pumpkin

2 minced jalapenos

4-5 tablespoons smoked paprika (substitute liquid smoke if you need to)

Half a cup balsamic vinegar

2 tsp cumin

2 tsp chili powder

1 tsp oregano

Finish:

1 oz bittersweet chocolate

1 can kidney beans

1 can black beans(rinse the beans in a sieve before using to remove any extra salt)

Step 1: In a large pot, heat some oil, and cook the vegetables for a few minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 2: Add the turkey, and cook until no longer pink

Step 3: Add the base. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the finish, cover, and let heat at least one hour, stirring occasionally.

Serve with guacamole, sour cream, and corn chips for a traditional experience, or over pasta for a hearty meal.

Learn more about this author, Heather Russell.
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