With the prediction of a nor’easter this weekend that could dump up to two feet of snow in my neck of the woods, I’m doing what is necessary to prepare.
I’m digging through my recipe files for comfort foods.
Nothing like an impending storm to bring out the nesting impulse. This will be fun! Snuggled at home with my family and the dog and cat, we will watch movies and eat popcorn and watch the snowflakes from the warmth of our cozy abode.
And comfort food will be prepared.
Whether it’s soup or a stew or chili, something flavorful and filling needs to be burbling on the stove, sending tantalizing aromas through the house. That’s key to the snowed in experience.
I pulled out a recipe that perfectly fits the bill. It is so tasty and so healthy, you can feel virtuous as you eat it. Your tummy will get all nice and warm, too.
Roasted Vegetable Chili
1 large red or sweet onion, coarsely chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
1 yellow squash, chopped
1 bell pepper, any color, seeded and chopped
1 medium eggplant, cubed
salt and pepper to taste
1 pound mushrooms, any kind, chopped (I used a mixture of cremini, button and portobello)
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp chili powder
1 can diced tomatoes
1 can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can vegetable broth
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray. Combine chopped onion, zucchini, squash, pepper and cubed eggplant and add to baking sheet.
Roast 30-45 minutes until veggies are soft, stirring several times.
Meanwhile, add 1-2 t. olive oil to a large pot and heat over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook 5-10 minutes, then add chopped garlic and chili powder. Stir.
Add tomatoes, beans and vegetable broth and stir til combined. Bring to a boil and then lower heat and cover pan. Cook for 15 minutes.
Stir in roasted veggies and cook 10 more minutes to combine the flavors. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Excellent served alone, or with rice, or if you really want to be healthy, over spaghetti squash.
Wishing everyone a nice weekend, and if you live in the path of the blizzard, stay safe!
