Mrs. President's Chili

I saw this in our Sunday newspaper a couple of weeks ago and I was very curious.  Mrs. Obama has prides herself in using local produce and creating healthy options.  But chili, really?  So, I gave it a try. 

This is not your ordinary chili recipe.  It doesn't pack a lot of heat. Of course, you can alter that!  It has an interesting group of spices. 

If you like vegetables, this is a good one for you.  (or if you want to get you kids to eat vegetables!).

From Parade Magazine:

Michele Obama's Chili

1 onion, chopped
1 green pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
1 T olive oil
1lb ground beef or turkey
1/4 t cumin
1/4 t oregano
1/4 t turmeric
1/4 t basil
1 T chili powder
3 T red wine vinegar
5-6 fresh chopped tomatoes
1 can red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1. Saute onion, pepper, and garlic in oil.
2. Add ground beef and brown.
3. Combine spices and add to meat.
4. Add vinegar and tomatoes and simmer down.
5. Add beans, cook for a few minutes to heat through.
6. Serve over rice and garnish with cheddar cheese, onions and sour cream.

The rice through me for a loop.  I much prefer the corn chips! :)

Family Factor:  everyone ate it, but said it definitely didn't have the traditional chili flavor
Stomach Factor: for chili, this is a mild one
Time Factor: this can be done within 30 minutes, so good for a weekday meal