Easy 3-Step Chili for Kids

My daughter Abby loves to cook. She's been an eager helper in the kitchen since she was about 2! Last week, she asked if she could plan a dinner that she could make by herself, and I was glad to oblige.

About 6(ish) months ago, I attempted to run a 'Cooking Basics Week' of sorts with my two older girls, because it's really important to me that they be able to at least take care of feeding themselves in the event of an emergency or if Mom is in bed sick for a day. I taught them how to make easy meals - scrambled eggs and toast, sandwiches - PB&J and deli meat, grilled cheese and canned soup, etc.

Now, we're stepping up our game! Abby decided she wanted to make a recipe she'd seen before for an easy, 3 ingredient chili. I stayed close by, but did virtually nothing to contribute to dinner.

 

This recipe was inspired by Pampered Chef's recipe 'Easy Campfire Chili'. I adapted it so it is gluten-free.

Ingredients:
1 lb ground turkey (you could use beef, pork, etc)
olive oil, salt & pepper to taste
16-oz jar salsa (any heat; we used mild)
1 29-oz can light red kidney beans, drained and rinsed!
1 15-oz can plain tomato sauce
shredded cheese & g-free tortilla chips (optional)

Step 1: Brown meat completely (the olive oil is to keep the turkey from drying out too much; if you're browning beef or pork, the olive oil should be unnecessary). Season to taste with salt & pepper.

Step 2: Add salsa, beans, & tomato sauce. Stir well; bring to a boil.

Step 3: Turn heat to medium-low; cover and simmer 10 minutes. Ta-da!!

Serve with shredded cheese and/or chips crumbled on top. Serves 2 grown ups and 3 little girls with enough leftover for one more bowlful!

It was delicious! Great job, Abby!

Abby is 6, and having a basic working knowledge of the kitchen, she was able to make this almost completely on her own (I needed to help her with the can opener, but that was it!). I stayed close by just in case, for safety, but she really was fine!!

What are your favorite recipes to let your kids make (or help with)?

For His glory!
~Lisha

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