Chili and Cornbread

Chili and cornbread is great comfort food. Chunks of seasoned ground turkey swimming in a spicy tomato broth with beans is a satisfying meal, but add a hunk of cornbread and some honey butter and that's some darn good eatin:-) If you are watching carb intake you can always omit the cornbread.

This is perfect for those days when you want something comforting and hearty, but completely healthy. There are some ingredients that give this a great dimension of flavor and you might not be accustomed to them in a savory dish. 

Unsweetened chocolate is very common in Mexican cooking and is usually added to moles.  I love the extra layer of flavor it gives this chili. Adding unsweetened chocolate adds body, color and flavor. The tiny hint of brown sugar balances the saltiness and spiciness of the chili. This chili also has three different beans and each one adds something special to the taste of the chili. The ground turkey instead of beef makes this quite a bit healthier than traditional chili. I always love to sprinkle some cheddar cheese and green onions on top or a dollop of sour cream.

Ingredients 
1 1/2 teaspoons olive oil
1 onion finely chopped
2 stalks celery chopped
1 small green chili pepper seeded and chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 pound ground turkey
2 cups water
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes and the juice
1 15 oz can chili beans in spicy sauce
1 15 oz can red kidney beans
1 15 oz can black beans
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa 

Directions:
 Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat and add onions, garlic, chili pepper and celery.  Saute until fragrant Place turkey in the pot, and cook until evenly brown.
 Pour water into the pot and add bouillon cubes. Mix in tomatoes, chili beans, kidney beans and black beans. Add  all seasonings: chili powder, paprika, oregano, cayenne pepper, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 30 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Chili is one of those dishes where you have to taste and adjust flavors as you go. You can add more peppers to give it kick, or substitute beer for the water. Beer in chili is one of those things I can't explain. It just makes it taste good. And if you don't drink, don't worry about the alcohol because it will cook out only leaving great flavor.

Bon Appetit!