Turkey Chili with Green Peas

The Story

Turkey is one of those top heart healthy low-fat protein sources which is both readily available and inexpensive. One serving of poultry is associated with a 19 percent lowered risk of cardiovascular disease than one serving of red meat per day. Peas are a great source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They belong to the legume family, which also includes lentils, soybeans, chickpeas, and all types of beans 1. Peas contain carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, which help protect your eyes from chronic diseases such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration 1. They also contain vitamins C and E, zinc, and other antioxidants that strengthen your immune system. Other nutrients, such as vitamins A and B and coumestrol, help reduce inflammation and lower your risk of chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis Kidney beans are also a rich source of proteins, making them eligible for fulfilling the major daily protein requirements. Kidney beans contain certain antioxidants which have beneficial health effects. Kidney beans are rich in soluble fiber content which regulates the blood glucose absorption from the body. The health benefits of tomatoes can be attributed to their wealth of nutrients and vitamins, including an impressive amount of vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K, as well as significant amounts of vitamin B6, folate, and thiamine. They are also a good source of potassium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper. This fast and easy recipe is prepared in a 6 quart saute pan on low heat. Start in the morning and enjoy for dinner.

The Ingredients
  • 5 slices bacon
  • 2 lbs ground turkey 90% lean
  • 4 tsp frozen garlic
  • 4 tsp frozen cilantro
  • 1 can small red kidney beans
  • 1 1/2 cups frozen peas
  • 2 sticks celery sliced
  • 1 can tomato sauce
  • 1 can tomato paste
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1 tbsp onion flakes
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 2 tsp chili powder
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste

The Preparation
  1. Render the bacon in a 6 quart sauce pan until crisp and dark brown.
  2. Add ground turkey, either frozen or defrosted and cook on low to medium heat until brown.
  3. Add garlic and cilantro and mix well.
  4. Add red kidney beans, frozen peas, celery, tomato sauce, tomato paste and water and mix well.
  5. Add cumin, ground mustard, onion flakes, paprika, chili powder and mix well.
  6. Add salt and pepper to taste.

The Wait

Simmer on very low heat for 2-3 hours.

Some Notes
  • Bacon
  • Peas

The Consumption

This chili can be topped with fresh parsley or any type of cheese. Hot sauce of course can be added for a bit of heat.