Baby It’s Cold Outside.

It’s that time of  year again – puffer coat and uggs have emerged out of my closet. I’m always cold, to the point where I keep a mini heater by my desk and have it on high all day. When the weather turns like this I crave hearty soups and warm heavier meals.

Yesterday I decided to try Panera’s chili without the cornbread. To my surprise, it was pretty good – a little heavy on the salt of course, but nonetheless it did the job and inspired me to make my own version last night.

Vicky’s Somewhat Chili:

Ingredients: (About 8 servings)

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 red onion
  • 1 clove of garlic
  • 2 bell peppers
  • white mushrooms
  • celery
  • 2 (14.5oz) cans of Basil and Garlic Diced Tomatoes
  • 1 cup of water
  • Paprika, Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Salt, Oregano and Pepper (Season to taste)
Instructions:
Chop up your veggies and put them in a pot with EVOO on medium heat. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes, stir occasionally so that they don’t burn.  Add in the ground beef and let it brown – breaking up the pieces.  Add in all the spices and mix. Once the meat is brown, add in the diced tomatoes and water (or beef stock) and bring to a boil. Then turn back to simmer/medium heat and let it cook for about an hour. (I didn’t really keep track of time, but I want to say it was around an hour total) You can also add in a can or two of beans toward the end – if you wish!
Veggies:
Add in the meat:
Add in the diced tomatoes and water:

Lunch: (garnish with shredded queso if you want – I sure will!)

(Ignore the color- this was taken in HD)

I could not get up for the life of me today so I’m curious to see where I will find energy to workout tonight – I gotta make it happen!  PS: I got an email confirmation that my stepper has been shipped – yay!!! Oh, and I also bought some really cute Christmas stickers for my calendar. I’m good-to-go! Have you made your list for the month yet? And I’m not referring to your Christmas list! ;)

Quote Of The Day:

“Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph; a beginning, a struggle and a victory.” – Ghandi

 

 

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