Simple, easy soup for the soul. Chili is one of those wintertime foods not to be forgotten. It warms the soul and the body with nutrients and flavor. While most traditional chili recipes call for hours of simmering, this recipe harnesses the bold flavors without the extra time. Packed with protein and boasting an array of health benefits, this delightful chili is sure to satisfy. 

Beans, beans, beans and more beans. During the colder months I tend to enjoy a variety of beans both big and small. While canned beans might seem convenient, home cooking your own will make up for the time. When I cook beans at home I usually use my pressure cooker, it cuts the time back to about 1/4 that of boiled beans. I also cook a large batch so that I can use them throughout the week! 

Polenta is made of ground corn, prepared similar to grits (if you are from the south), but much smoother in texture. Though originally from Italy, polenta has now made its way into the global market. It boasts a slightly larger amount of protein per serving than a large egg, making it an excellent main dish. Polenta also contains many vital nutrients such as vitamins A and C, phosphorus and potassium. To top it off, this gluten free grain is so versatile it can be used in some desserts. 

Nutritional yeast, a powerhouse of nutrition. Low in fat and sodium, free of gluten, dairy and sugar, what else can you ask for? This small but powerful yeast is also a complete protein while also boasting B-complex vitamins! Due to its delicious cheezy flavor, nutritional yeast is commonly enjoyed as a cheese substitute. My favorite way to enjoy this superfood is to sprinkle it on popcorn along with some smoked paprika! 

Gluten Free, Vegan, Nut Free

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked black beans 

1 cup cooked kidney beans 

1 28 oz can organic chopped tomatoes

1 12 oz can organic crushed tomatoes 

3/4 cup pumpkin puree

1/2 - 3/4 cup water 

3 tbs tomato paste 

1 tbs chili powder

2 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cinnamon 

a few shakes cayenne pepper (optional) 

Tahini or greek yogurt for garnish 

Instructions:

Add your beans and canned tomatoes to a large pot and bring them to a boil. Next, add about 1/2 cup water along with the spices and tomato paste. Lower the pot to a simmer and continue to stir until everything is throughly heated. Now, add in the pumpkin puree along with more water if needed. (At this same time I usually taste it to see if I need to add any more spices.) 

Ladle into bowls and garnish with tahini or greek yogurt. 

Gluten Free, Vegan, Nut Free

Ingredients:

1/2 cup dry instant polenta

2 cups filtered water (or follow the instructions on the package)

1/4 cup nutritional yeast 

1/2 tsp smoked paprika 

1/2 tsp smoked sea salt 

Instructions:

Bring the water to a boil and add in the instant polenta. Remove the pot from the heat and stir the mixture until all the liquid has been absorbed. Next add in the nutritional yeast, paprika and smoked salt, continue to stir until incorporated. Add more salt if needed and serve topped with chili! 

Today's Question: What is your favorite wintertime comfort food? 

I am finally back, it is amazing how far a little cold can set you back! I have currently been enjoying my weekly trips to the local farmers market though, and I bet you can guess what I bought this week! Tomatoes, a summertime speciality. Fresh produce, simple ingredients and easy instructions, what more could you ask for? 

Tomatoes are a long time love of mine, fresh, roasted, dried, you name it! Even when I was little I remember gazing upon rows and rows of freshly canned tomatoes ready for the winter months. Little did I know about all the health benefits these beauties have to offer! Tomaoes are very rich in lycopene, which aids in the formation of healthy bone tissue. Vitamins C,A and K are also provided by tomatoes. Recent studies have also shown that tomaotes play a key role in heart health due to their ability to help regulate fat in the bloodstream. 

This hearty gluten free crust is packed with flavor and nutrition. Walnuts provide a rich flavor and texture while also issuing a unique amount of vitamin E, which serves as an aid in heart health. Sunflower seeds help to dampen the bitterness of the walnuts, as well as contributing both anti-inflammatory and cardiovascular benefits. These tiny seeds have also been found to lower the frequency of hot flashes during menopause and reduce the risk of colon cancer!   Flax seeds, a superfood traced back to 3000 BC, are packed with nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and lignans, which contain antioxidant properties. Recent studies have now suggested that flax seeds may protect against breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer! 

Gluten Free, Vegan, Low Carb

Ingredients:

3 fresh tomatoes, sliced (I used an herloom variety)

Crust:

1 cup GF oat flour 

1/2 cup walnuts, ground into a fine meal

1/2 cup sunflower seeds, ground into a fine meal

3/4 cup flax meal or ground chia seeds 

3/4 cup filtered water

1 tbs sunflower oil (or another neutral tasting oil) 

salt + pepper

Filling:

1 1/2 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours 

2 tbs coconut oil 

1/2 cup fresh basil (I used two types) 

1/3 - 1/2 cup filtered water 

1 - 2 tbs agave nectar or honey

1 tbs apple cider vinegar

Instructions:

Pre heat the oven to 400F degrees.

If desired, you may warm your tomato slices in the dehydrator for about 4 hours at 115F degrees to get rid of some extra juice. 

For the crust, grind all your flours, nuts and seeds. Next, toss them togther in a large bowl along with the salt and pepper. Then, add in the water and oil a little bit at a time until a dough begins to form. After the dough has been mixed throughout, press it into a springform or pie pan. Bake for 35 minutes, let it cool once done.

For the filling, add all your filling ingredients to a high speed blender and blend until smooth. Add more water if needed to create a smooth consistency. 

To assemble, pour the basil cream into the tart crust (if you have some leftover that's fine) and top with your tomato slices! Serve at room temperature. Garnish with fresh basil and enjoy! 

Posy by: Rebecca 

              Featured Articles from FEM by mgid: