Some may call it witches’ stew, but we think this hearty chili is the ultimate comfort food. It’s a perfect warmer on chilly autumn nights.
—PAT SCHMELING GERMANTOWN, WI
PREP: 10 MIN. • COOK: 30 MIN. • MAKES: 10 SERVINGS (4 QUARTS)
1 package (20 ounces) lean ground turkey
3 celery ribs with leaves, chopped
1 large green pepper, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (46 ounces) tomato juice
1 can (11 1/2 ounces) V8 juice
2 cans (8 ounces each) tomato sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf
1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
2 cans (16 ounces each) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
Optional toppings: sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced green onions and ripe olives
1. In a Dutch oven, cook the turkey, celery, green pepper, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink. Add the juices, tomato sauce, brown sugar, seasonings and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 20 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, cook the macaroni according to the package directions; drain. Add the beans and macaroni to turkey mixture; heat through. Discard the bay leaf before serving. Garnish servings with toppings of your choice.