White Chili

I didn't start off this morning thinking I would fix chili.  I did, however, see two large jars filled with northern white beans.  So I took the jars out of the pantry and put some beans in water to soak shortly after breakfast.  Maybe a bean and vegetable soup, I thought.  I had planned to take another long walk and then get some things done around the house before work again tomorrow.  But, my husband had a different itinerary for the day.  We headed out to Costco and then a long list of other stores followed.  The pantry shelves were calling for new items with my husband and two sons still at home on Christmas break. As I stood in the parking lot, loading purchases, with a cold wind blowing through my jacket, a hot bowl of soup sounded like it would hit the spot (and a long walk sounded way less appealing).  A quick Google search as we walked through Lowes, and I had a good idea of what I was going to make..a white chili.  Aren't smart phones great!?  (see the recipe below the photos)

Following is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried white beans
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 3/4 cup diced onion
• 2 cans chopped green chiles 
• 1 pound lean ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
• 1 to 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon hot chili powder

Directions

Rinse beans well, cover with cool water, and soak for 6 hours. Drain.

In a dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and saute for 5 minutes.  Add ground turkey and cook until no longer pink.   Add chicken broth, water, drained beans and green chiles. Add cumin, oregano, pepper, and chili powder. Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally, for approximately 1 1/2 hours. Serve with sour cream, grated cheese, and tortilla chips...or cornbread...or crackers.  Enjoy!

Warm Wishes and Warm Soup,
M.S.M.