Wintry Weather~ Low Budget~ Lentil Stew/Chili

I've only fairly recently become acquainted with Lentils ~ their flavor AND their budget-boosting value. Shocking, I know, but there it is. ;)

So, on with one of my more recent recipes that was a hit with young and old ~

Lentil Stew/Chili 

Heat
2 Tablespoons olive oil over medium-low to medium heat.
Chop and add:

1 onion,
1/2 pepper
2 large carrots
Saute' for 6-20 minutes, depending on whether you prefer to have your veggies more caramelized (my usual option when I have the time), or just softened.

When you are happy with the condition of your veggies, add the following to the pot
4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 bag lentils (rinsed)
1 Tablespoon chili powder
2 teaspoons cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon paprika

Add

2 cups of water

Bring to boil, cook covered for 20 minutes
At this point add

1 large can of tomatoes ( or in my case tomato purée~ Can of tomatoes tossed in the blender),

1 can pumpkin

1 tub of knorr concentrated broth 

2 more cups of water

*Note: I didn't add the broth or tomatoes earlier because I have read that cooking lentils with salt inhibits softening, and we wouldn't want that, would we? (smile)

In a sauté pan brown

1 package of ground turkey (Approximately 1 lb)

(I like to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the turkey for flavor)

Add to the cooked meat to the soupy mixture along with

1 cup frozen corn

Allow to simmer for another 15-20 minutes and serve with tortilla chips, shredded cheese and sour cream, if desired.

If you have leftovers, they make an interesting quesadilla filling~ for another budget friendly meal! :) 

Menu-planning this week?
Monday~ Hamburgers (well, actually TurkeyBurgers, but you get the idea... The kiddos have been asking for hamburgers for a bit.... George Forman Grill... here we come! :D )
Tuesday~ Tuna Tomato casserole w/ Baked Potatoes (If we have time before dance~ fall back plan~ cold-cut wraps)
Wednesday~ Fish tacos with mango salsa (Jury duty day)
Thursday~ Lentil Stew
Friday~ Quesadillas

Blessings~

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