- Garlic cloves (crushed or minced for aromatic benefits)
- Ground beef or turkey (for protein content; optional or substitute with beans for vegan option)
- Canned kidney beans or black beans (for added texture and nutrition)
- Quinoa (cooked and mixed for a nutritious boost)
- Chili powder (or your preferred spice blend) (key ingredient for chili flavor)
- Ground cumin (essential for warm, earthy taste)
- Coriander seeds (optional but adds depth to the chili)
- Salt (to taste; adjust based on personal preference)
- Black pepper (freshly ground for added aroma and heat)
- Kidney beans or black beans (for a hearty texture)
- Corn kernels (canned or fresh, optional, but enhances flavor)
- Tomatillos (optional, adds a tangy touch to the dish)
- Green chilies (dried or canned, depending on availability)
- Vegetable broth (or water for a lighter version; use low sodium if possible)
**Keywords**: chili recipe, quinoa chili, vegan chili, nutritious chili, chili ingredients, chili with quinoa
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### Delicious Chili with Quinoa Recipe: A Hearty and Healthy Meal
Looking for a hearty, nutritious meal that's both comforting and healthy? Try making this delicious chili with quinoa! This recipe combines the rich flavors of chili with the wholesome benefits of quinoa, creating a perfect blend of texture and taste. Perfect for cold evenings or any time you want to enjoy a satisfying home-cooked meal.
#### Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or substitute with a plant-based alternative)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 can (4 oz) chopped green chilies
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
#### Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide
#### Step 1: Prepare the Quinoa
1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed quinoa and reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
#### Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the pot. Stir and cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add ground beef or turkey (or your chosen protein) and cook until fully browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
#### Step 3: Simmer the Chili
1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, kidney beans, chopped green chilies, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
#### Step 4: Combine Quinoa and Chili
1. Once the chili has thickened and seasoned, add the cooked quinoa to the pot.
2. Stir gently to combine; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the quinoa is heated through.
#### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
1. Ladle the chili with quinoa into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
3. Serve hot, accompanied by any side of your choice such as a crisp salad or steamed vegetables.
### Tips for Perfect Results
- Soak the quinoa in water before cooking to reduce its natural bitterness and shorten cooking time.
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes; their flavor greatly enhances the chili's taste.
- For added texture, you can add corn or black beans to your chili mixture.
- Experiment with different types of peppers to adjust spiciness according to your preference.
### Conclusion
Making a chili with quinoa is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This meal provides a balanced mix of protein from the quinoa and ground beef (or plant-based alternative), along with essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this dish can be easily customized to suit different dietary preferences or spice levels.
By following these detailed steps, you'll have a hearty, wholesome chili that's sure to become a family favorite!