I decided to use a lot of leftover turkey at once, so I put together a crockpot of chili this morning. I was in the basement pantry looking for stuff I could throw in (I don't know how you cook, but I look for possibilities when I'm putting something together!
)
I filled my arms with stewed tomatoes, green chilis, several kinds of bean, corn, hominy, etc. and then I saw something and thought "why not?" I'd never tried it but I hate thickening my chili with carbs, so I grabbed a can of spicy refried beans. After I'd tossed everything into the pot, I dumped the refried beans into a bowl and mixed them with water to make a thick paste. I stirred that in, set the timer for 8 hours, and went on with other stuff. The 3/4 -1 cup of water I added to the beans was all the liquid I used.
I called the hospital and had them cancel Peanut's dinner and took her a bowl of the chili. She loves my chili, and after 6 weeks of fine institutional dining, I figured it'd cheer her up. She took one bite and said "I like this! What did you do to it?"
The refried beans thicken the chili without adding the carbs of masa, flour, or corn starch. They also increase the protein level by a considerable amount. They improve the texture, and they add a nice taste of their own.
Give 'em a try next time you're making something they'd fit in with!
CT
A better way to thicken chili!! 
Judi
So sorry! Since you're such a good cook and the one with all the great recipes I thought you had this one figured out!
Linear Mode
