Chili Me Some Lovin!

Happy Tuesday! Okay I know I am going to get some groans out there from people but I am a wimp and it is COLD in Texas right now! I think yesterday’s high was only 41! (insert all the groans from you bloggers on the east coast…I know! I know!) But 41 is cold to this southern gal! So what do you do when it is cold…make chili!! Keith was thrilled to come in the door yesterday and discover chili going nicely in the crockpot! (my favorite kitchen gadget of late). Here is my all-time favorite go-to chili recipe! You can also sub in whatever meat of your choosing…I have made this before with ground turkey and bison with no problems! But this time I stuck to the traditional and used lean ground beef! Here’s the recipe (oh and for all you cookbook owners out there…it is on page 33)

CLASSIC BEEF CHILI

1 lb lean ground beef (I used 96/4)

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

2 Tbsp chili powder

1 tsp. cumin (I actually REALLY like cumin and I always double this)

1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes

1 (15oz) can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

1 sweet onion, chopped

1 (4oz) can diced green chilis

2 Tbsp. tomato paste

In a large nonstick skillet, cook beef and garlic over medium heat, until browned. Drain. Add chili powder and cumin; stir.

Combine tomatoes, beans, onions, chilies and tomato paste in slow cooker; stir in beef mixture. Cover and cook on high until flavors are blended, 4 to 5 hours.

Garnish with fresh cilantro, cheese, avacado, etc.

Yields: 6 (1 cup) servings

217.4 Calories; 5.3g Fat (2.1g saturated fat); 43.3mg Cholesterol; 486.4mg Sodium; 22.5g Carbohydrates; 7.5g Fiber; 22.1g Protein

Chili Goodness!

 

 

Get In My Belly!

What is your favorite cold weather meal?

Also yesterday I talked to a friend that I haven’t talked to you in a LONG time. It was my friend, Allena. She was the maid of honor in my wedding. I absolutely love her like a sister and even though we don’t talk nearly as much as we should I know that she would do ANYTHING for me if I ever needed her. She is one of those friends that has seen me through it all and I know that when push comes to shove she always has my back! Love you Allena!!

Allena, me, Keith, Bret (Keith's brother & Best Man)

This morning has been awesome. No complaints. I ran 10 miles at 8:27 pace and then took an hour break to refuel with some food and coffee and then headed back in for an hour session of weight lifting with Keith. I will admit that having my husband train me is difficult. I tend to be very oversensitive when he critiques me. I have my fitness certification too so when he corrects my form I always feel like a loser! But I have to remember that I can not let that “perfection bug” win and Keith is just looking out for my safety!!

Is is hard for you to workout with your significant other?

I will be back later with the winner from the Perfect Food Bar give-a-way! I am already jealous of this lucky winner!! 🙂

Also…I need to give a shout out to April for her AMAZING creation of  protein brownie batter. Seriously make this…it is out of this world!! Get the recipe here!