It's a Chili Sunday...

Brrrrrrr... it's cold out there!  Football is on (well, in most houses, I presume), weekend hunger is lingering, and Sunday Funday is in full effect!  What  a perfect day to fulfill that need for warmth and a full belly-in a healthy way... oh, and a delicious one too.

With chili, the sky is the limit in what you can include.  I'm going to post my go-to recipe, and list some alternatives, but as always, I want you to use this blog as a basis and inspiration-make it your own!

Becca Jean's Chili: (serves 2-4, double ingredients for a larger crowd!)

• 1 lb ground meat-preferably bison or grass-fed organic beef; ground chicken and turkey are great alternatives too; for you vegetarians-go meatless!
• 1 large green pepper, diced
• 2-4 large stalks of celery, diced
• 1 jar salsa-mild, medium, or HOT!, depending on taste preference
• 1 large tomato or a jar of diced tomatoes (canned tomatoes have traces of BPA in them due to the acid eating away at the can)
• 1/2 can-1 can of chili, kidney, or black beans (optional-while packed with fiber and protein, they're also loaded with carbs; refrain from beans if you'd like a lighter, less-filling chili)
• 1/2 red onion diced
• Canola, Olive, or Coconut oil (1-2 tbsp)
• generous sprinkles of: chili powder, cinnamon, cumin
• pinch of salt
• optional toppings of sour cream and shredded cheddar cheese!

1. Start by heating the oil of your choice over medium heat (I prefer coconut oil-amazingly healthful properties, some of which are even found in breast milk!) in a large pan or pot-ceramic non-toxic cookware is always best!
2. Brown the meat of your choice, stirring often, and generously sprinkling with the chili powder, cinnamon, and cumin (what an amazingly tasty, healthful punch!)
3. Once browned, add the pepper, celery, and onion; sauté until onions are translucent and greens are softened (5-10 mins)
4. If in a pan, transfer to a pot or crockpot 
5. Add the salsa, tomatoes, pinch of salt, and optional beans at this time
6. Simmer covered for at least an hour
7. Ladle into crocks or bowls and top with optional goodies
8. Enjoy a healthful meal!!!

There you have it... enjoy and please share if you have other ideas that have made your chili super!  If you're staying away from alcohol, a healthier and equally complimentary cold beverage is a tall glass of Perrier (or any sparkling water) with a squirt of lemon juice... very refreshing-Stay Chic, Stay Healthy;)