Monday, October 19, 2009

The Happiness of a Rainy Weekend


D and I had a wonderful vacation abroad, but there is nothing like being away for awhile to make you appreciate home. I couldn’t wait to settle back into our house, our routines, and of course, see little Dundee (who had grown so much while we were away!!).

The weather was terrible this weekend, which normally would be a total bummer. But going into the weekend, I really needed 1) rest, 2) clean clothes, and 3) home cooked meals, so it was perfect. Being forced to be inside all weekend, I did laundry, caught up on all the TV I missed the last week, and made chili and cupcakes for D and I.

I found this recipe online, and it made a really hearty, delish chili in the crockpot. Perfect for a cold and rainy weekend! My only suggestion is to maybe double the recipe because D and I would have enjoyed more leftovers…


1 pound lean ground beef
1 can (16 ounces) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
2 cans (14 ½ ounces each) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon chili powder
½ tablespoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon pepper
Optional toppings: low fat shredded cheddar cheese, chopped scallions, light or fat-free sour cream

In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef. Drain well and place in slow cooker. Add the beans, tomatoes, tomato sauce, onion and seasonings. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Garnish each serving with toppings as desired.

(I started mine at noon, so I cooked it on high for 4-5 hours and added a little more spice with some cayenne pepper and a bay leaf. D and I enjoyed with a sliced baguette and fruit, and it was so good!)

I hope you had a great weekend!

2 comments:

Milltini said...

Looks delish! Glad you had a wonderful weekend.

Solar Powered said...

sounds divine, can't wait to see pictures of your trip.