It’s that time of year when the after-holiday craze has passed and the quiet lull of winter has begun to set in. You might even be feeling a little bit of the post-Christmas blues. We totally get it. But just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean we can’t still soak in all the cozy vibes that Winter has to offer! We love this time of year and finding ways to make the post-holiday portion of Winter extra special. It’s the perfect time to bundle up in that new sweater you were gifted, use that cute new mug you got in your stocking (hopefully a CFL one!), light that warm scented candle, and put a big pot of chili on the stove! You could even put on your hostess hat and invite some friends over for chili, cornbread, and a cozy night by the fire with a hot toddy or cocoa!

We’ve got a delicious chili recipe that we’re excited to share. Chili can be a bit controversial. Beans or no beans? Veggies or no veggies? Mild or extra spicy? Lots of people have different ideas about what makes a truly good batch of chili. But this recipe has a little bit of everything, and we think you’ll love it! So plan a cozy night with family or friends and try out this new recipe together!

Ingredients (makes about 6 big servings) :

• 2 lb ground beef
• 2 zucchini squash, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, choped
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 jalepeño, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 can kidney beans, drained
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 1 can pinto beans, drained
• 1/4 cup corn masa flour
• 1 Tbsp ground cumin
• 2 Tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp salt

Directions:

1. Place ground beef, onion, and chopped garlic in a large pot; brown the beef and then drain the excess fat
2. Add in zucchini, tomato sauce, then the spices and salt
3. Stir together, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally (if the mixture becomes too dry, you can add in 1/2 cup water)
4. Meanwhile, combine the 1/4 cup corn masa flour and 1/2 cup water in a small bowl and stir together with a fork
5. After the chili has been cooking on low for about an hour, stir in the flour + water mixture (you may need to add in more corn masa flour or water till you get the desired consistency)
6. Add the beans, jalapeño, and diced tomatoes and green chiles
7. Simmer for 10 minutes, then serve with desired toppings

Add in some cornbread and a winter cocktail and you’ve got the perfect, cozy night meal. We hope you love it! Be sure to comment and tell us what you think!