Mhmmm, breathe in the savory aroma emanating from a pot of chili bubbling on the stove, relish the saturated, intense flavors that make taste buds dance. I love food with big flavor.

10 reasons chili is one of my staple meals in the cooler months:

  1. It’s a meal everyone seems to eat
  2. It’s a one pot meal
  3. It can feed a lot of people
  4. Versatility: a) turkey, or bison, or beef b) With beans, without beans, or only beans. c) Some veggies, no veggies, LOTS of veggies (bell peppers, celery, carrot and more).
  5. Fiber-rich and loaded with phytochemicals, natural plant chemicals that boost our immune system
  6. Big flavor. The spices that make it so tasty also boost our health. Chili powder, cumin, ground coriander, basil, marjoram, oregano are some of the spices and herbs that go into my chili pot.
  7. Happy tummies. Loaded with protein and fiber, chili fills our bellies full longer
  8. Affordable. Because beans have high protein, it takes less chili to fill us up than many other dishes
  9. Every one can fix up just the way aha aha they like it:
    • chopped green or red onion
    • chopped cilantro
    • sliced avocado
    • plain Greek yogurt (instead of sour cream)
    • shredded cheddar
    • chopped Serrano peppers
  10. Excellent way to repurpose into other meals
  • Shepherd pie with Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes
  • Stuffed potatoes
  • Baked in a butternut squash or zucchini “boats”, topped with cheese
  • Mix into Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
  • Chili nachos loaded with fresh tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, red onion

Here are 4 of my favorite chili recipes

Lentil Chili – Color My Food (with or without

Pumpkin Chili – One Lovely Life

Turkey Chili with White Beans – Epicurious

Black Bean and Quinoa Chili  – Fit Foodie Finds

For More Empowerment

What To Do With Leftover Chili 

6 Ways to a Healthier Bowl of Chili

#nutrientdense #fitfoodiefinds #onelovelylife