Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Deceit... A ♥-Healthy Recipe... "Choupsa"

It's pronounced "choop-sah". Its texture and flavor are derived from concept-blending chili, soup and Bolognese sauce. It was created to satisfy the great divide that exists in the food arena, between me and Joe. It's very healthy, nutritious and satisfying. I bent my rules to include lean ground beef, 'cause hubby was feeling the sprouting of wings and fins from all the poultry and fish he's been consuming. It contains cabbage (Antioxidant City!); thus the deceit, 'cause The Man has never allowed such a "nasty" vegetable to challenge his taste buds. Make a huge batch:

In a large Dutch oven, begin to sauté about 1 pound of lean ground sirloin in 2 tablespoons EVOO. Add about 3 cups finely chopped/shredded cabbage, a large grated carrot, lots of chopped garlic, and (optional) chopped onion. Don't let it brown; just soften. Add 2 boxes chopped Pomì tomatoes (partially puréed with infusion blender) and a generous 1/2 cup Balsamic vinegar. I seasoned with lots of oregano, parsley and ground pepper... use what you like and add "heat", if that's your desire. Simmer for about 20 minutes and then add 2 cups of your own pure chicken broth, simmering for another 20. Meanwhile, rinse and nuke an 8-oz. package of Shirataki noodles (now a staple in my kitchen *link*) and pre-cook about 1/8 pound broken angel hair. Add to the choupsa; simmer about 10 more minutes, for flavors to be absorbed. Top with a wedge of Laughing Cow or a hit of goat cheese... or a dollop of plain yogurt... or a little milk... or nothing.  
PS: Need just a few angel hair, pre-cooked? Break them into a microwavable bowl and cover with water... nuke away... no extra pots and pans. "Easy" is the name of the game!
PPS: Certainly, I've forgotten an ingredient or two... whatever floats your boat can be added or subtracted... the nature of my recipes.
PPPS: *Verdict* - Joe loved it. I didn't fess-up till after he enjoyed choupsa several times. (If looks could kill...) It's a keeper; the tomatoes are especially healthful for men (Google "lycopene").
Buon Appetito.