Last Updated on March 10, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Homecooked Chili

(Family Features) Walking in the door to the smell of homemade chili is sure to warm you up from the inside-out, but if you forgot to set up the slow cooker before heading out the door in the morning, don’t fret – a hearty bowl of beans, beef and stewed goodness can still await.

For a quick and easy version of the comfort food classic, consider this Quick Homecooked Chili that’s made in a skillet and ready in half an hour. Just brown ground beef with a chopped onion, stir in beans, tomato sauce, cubed sweet potato and a few simple seasonings and you’re well on your way to a winter warmup.

Find more easy ways to feed your family by visiting Culinary.net.

Quick Homecooked Chili

Recipe adapted from Allrecipes

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

• 1          pound ground beef
  
• 1          onion, chopped
  
• 1          can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  
• 1          can (15 ounces) kidney beans
  
• 1          can (14 1/2 ounces) stewed tomatoes
  
• 1          can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  
• 1          sweet potato, cubed
  
•             water (optional)
  
• 1          teaspoon chili powder
  
• 1          pinch garlic powder
  
• salt, to taste
  
• pepper, to taste
  
• sour cream (optional)
  
• sliced avocado (optional)

1. In large saucepan over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until meat is browned and onion is tender, 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in tomato sauce, kidney beans, stewed tomatoes with juices, diced tomatoes with green chilies and cubed sweet potato. Add water to reach desired consistency.
3. Season with chili powder and garlic powder. Add salt and pepper, to taste.
4. Bring to boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes.
5. Serve with sour cream and sliced avocado, if desired.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

SOURCE:

Culinary.net

Last Updated on March 8, 2026 by Daily News Staff

(Family Features) A crucial component of overall well-being, heart health can be a barometer for living a long, healthy and happy life. Because heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, taking steps to reduce your controllable risk factors – including poor diet, stress and inactivity – can set you on the right path.

From regular checkups and reducing stress to eating well – including heart-healthy snacks like grapes – and exercising regularly, these simple steps can help boost your heart health.

Know Your Numbers

Knowing key health metrics such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and body mass index can help you and your health care provider identify potential risks early. Schedule annual checkups and discuss any concerns you may have about your heart health. Early detection and risk factor management can reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease.

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables into your diet can ensure you get a broad range of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, all of which contribute to a healthy cardiovascular system. For example, leafy greens like spinach and kale are high in potassium, which helps manage blood pressure. Fresh grapes contain 7% of the daily recommended intake of potassium, are a good source of vitamin K and are also a natural source of beneficial antioxidants and other polyphenols, including flavonoids, that can help relax blood vessels and promote healthy circulation. Some studies also suggest grapes have a beneficial impact on blood lipids and more.

In fact, one study found women who consumed 1 1/4 cups of grapes every day benefited from reduced blood triglyceride levels, LDL cholesterol levels, inflammatory proteins and other markers of heart disease.

Bright, juicy and bursting with flavor, Grapes from California can be enjoyed by the handful or blended with rich bananas, tangy Greek yogurt and a hint of almond in The Great Grape-Acai Smoothie Bowl for a delicious blend of fruity flavors at breakfast, lunch or snack time – it not only tastes great, but supports a healthy heart. 

Get Moving
Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to improve heart health. Exercise strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood circulation and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, as recommended by the American Heart Association, such as walking, jogging or swimming with strength training exercises like lifting weights or using resistance bands mixed in to help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Manage Stress
Consider your stress level: chronic stress can negatively impact heart health, increasing blood pressure and other risk factors for heart disease. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga and regular physical activity can help manage stress levels and maintain a healthy heart. Additionally, taking time to engage in hobbies, spending time with loved ones and ensuring adequate sleep are stress-reducing activities that improve overall well-being and heart health.

To learn more about the heart-health benefits of grapes, and find additional heart-friendly recipes, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com.

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The Great Grape-Acai Smoothie Bowl

Servings: 1

Chicken:

• 1/2 cup red Grapes from California, fresh or frozen
• 1/2 banana
• 1 frozen acai fruit pack (3 1/2 ounces)
• 1/2 cup plain, nonfat Greek yogurt
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Topping:

• 1/4 cup sliced red Grapes from California
• 1 tablespoon sliced, toasted almonds
• 1 tablespoon pepitas
• 1 teaspoon chia seeds

1. In small blender, combine grapes, banana, acai, yogurt and almond extract; process until smooth.
2. Pour into bowl and top with sliced grapes, sliced almonds, pepitas and chia seeds.

Nutritional information per serving: 420 calories; 19 g protein; 63 g carbohydrates; 12 g fat (26% calories from fat); 2.5 g saturated fat (5% calories from saturated fat); 5 mg cholesterol; 45 mg sodium; 8 g fiber.

SOURCE:

California Table Grape Commission

Last Updated on March 7, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Oven-Baked Hash Brown Potatoes

If you love golden, crispy hash browns without the grease of a skillet, this oven-baked version delivers all the flavor with less fuss. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a comforting side, these potatoes turn out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside — every time.

Ingredients

• 3 cups shredded potatoes (fresh or frozen — thawed & squeezed dry)
• 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional add-ins: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, shredded cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

2. Prep the Potatoes

• Fresh potatoes: Rinse shredded potatoes under cold water, then squeeze out as much moisture as possible using a clean kitchen towel.
• Frozen hash browns: Thaw completely and press dry before seasoning.

Getting the water out is the secret to crispy hash browns!

3. Season & Toss

In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes with olive oil (or melted butter), salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like garlic powder or paprika.

4. Spread & Bake

Spread the potatoes in a thin, even layer on the baking sheet. For patties, press small mounds into rounds.

Bake for 18–25 minutes, then use a spatula to flip. Continue baking another 10–15 minutes until the edges are perfectly golden brown.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Once crisp and golden, transfer to a plate, add your favorite toppings — think sour cream, chives, or cheese — and serve hot.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crispiness

• Dry is key: The drier the potatoes, the crispier they get.
• Don’t crowd the pan: Give them space so they roast, not steam.
• High heat wins: 425°F ensures a crunchy outside and a tender inside.

Serving Suggestions

These hash browns pair beautifully with:

• Eggs any style
• Grilled sausages or bacon
• Avocado and salsa for a breakfast bowl twist
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out more comfort classics and kitchen tips right here on STM Daily News.

🍽️ Happy cooking from STM Daily News!