Chilli Cheesy Nachos

• Cut the potatoes into wedges and microwave on high for 3 minutes. Remove, shake and return to the microwave for another 2 or 3 minutes.
• Tip onto a baking tray sprayed with Frylight.
• Spray wedges with Frylight and sprinkle over seasoning of your choice.
• Cook in oven at 200 degrees C for approx. 25 mins, shaking several times during cooking.
• Set the Instant Pot to sauté.
• Spray with a little Frylight and cook the onions until translucent.
• Add mince and chilli powder, then saute until browned, then add garlic, chilli and stock, stir, then add tinned tomatoes and red kidney beans.
• Finally, tip in the diced veg.
• Switch to manual pressure cook mode and set for 15 mins.
• Allow 5 minutes Natural Pressure Release (NPR) then Quick Release (QR) until pressure released.
• Remove lid. Switch to saute mode again. Thicken with ½ tsp xanthan gum if required (stir the Xanthan Gum in well to avoid any lumps).
• Pour chilli into an ovenproof dish, arrange the wedges around the dish.
• Squeeze half a tube of Primula light over chilli and spread out. If you’d like to, you can add a sprinkle of cheddar too (don't forget to add the syns or count it as part of your HEA).
• Return the dish to the oven for 5 mins until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Serve with a green salad or fresh spinach leaves.
• Spray a large frying pan with Frylight, then sauté the onions, carrots, swede and celery until they start to soften.
• Add the mince, garlic, chilli and chilli powder and fry until the mince is browned.
• Stir in the kidney beans, chopped tomatoes and stock. Cover then bring to the boil.
• Turn down the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes.
• Thicken with ½ tsp xanthan gum if required (stir the Xanthan Gum in well to avoid any lumps) or remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens if necessary.
• Pour chilli into an ovenproof dish, arrange the wedges around the dish.
• Squeeze half a tube of Primula light over chilli and spread out. If you’d like to, you can add a sprinkle of cheddar too (don't forget to add the syns or count it as part of your HEA).
• Return the dish to the oven for 5 - 10 mins until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
• Serve with a green salad or fresh spinach leaves.

A Busy Mum's Comfort Food: Chilli Cheesy Nachos

Let me tell you, being a mum is a whirlwind. Between school runs, work deadlines (yes, I work from home, but it's still work!), and trying to keep a semblance of order in the house, finding time for myself feels like a luxury. And let’s be honest, cooking a healthy and satisfying dinner that doesn't take hours often feels impossible. But, this Chilli Cheesy Nachos recipe has become my go-to weeknight meal. It's quick, it’s tasty, and most importantly, it ticks all the boxes for a healthy, slimming-friendly option. I discovered this recipe after a particularly grueling evening juggling football practice for my daughter and working late, I was exhausted but craved something comforting. This dish truly hit the spot, without the guilt.

What makes this recipe so brilliant? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch, while the hearty chilli provides warmth and depth. The Primula light cheese adds a creamy, cheesy indulgence without the excess calories, and a sprinkle of cheddar (if you're feeling indulgent!) elevates the dish further. This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference and add other vegetables to the chilli for extra nutritional value. I often add peppers or mushrooms, depending on what I have on hand.

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. On busy nights, I’ll use the Instant Pot to quickly prepare the chilli, cutting down the cooking time significantly. Other days, when I have a bit more time, I opt for the stovetop method. Both methods deliver fantastic results. I find the Instant Pot method saves time and ensures that the chilli is rich, flavorful, and tender. The stovetop method, on the other hand, allows for more control over the consistency of the chilli. The beauty of this recipe is the flexibility that it provides - perfect for those unpredictable days! No matter which method you choose, the result is a delicious, healthy meal that the whole family will love. This is more than just a recipe; it’s a solution for busy mums everywhere who want to enjoy a hearty, delicious meal without sacrificing their health goals or spending hours in the kitchen.

Beyond the Recipe: This Chilli Cheesy Nachos recipe isn't just about a meal; it's a testament to finding balance in a busy life. It represents my commitment to healthy eating, but also to creating heartwarming family moments around the dinner table. The simple act of preparing a delicious meal, even amidst the chaos of a busy day, allows me to reconnect with my family and create lasting memories. The aroma filling the kitchen while it bakes is an additional, comforting element to our busy weeknights. The smiles on my daughters' faces when we enjoy it together make all the effort worthwhile. It's a reminder that even amid the frenzy of daily life, there's always time for a wholesome, satisfying meal, and that shared moments of simple happiness are the most valuable things.

Tips for Success:

• Prep Ahead: Chop the vegetables ahead of time to save time on busy weeknights.
• Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of chilli powder and chilli flakes to your preferred spice level. I find that adding a pinch of cayenne pepper adds extra warmth.
• Vegetable Variety: Experiment with different vegetables in your chilli. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes can add extra flavour and nutrients.
• Cheese Choices: While Primula light is my favourite for its low-calorie count, other reduced-fat cheeses can also be used. Experiment to find your favourite!
• Leftovers are Great: This dish is delicious the next day as well! The flavours meld beautifully and create an even richer dish.

So, next time you're facing a busy weeknight and craving some comfort food, try this recipe. It's a quick, easy, and satisfying meal that's perfect for the whole family. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating and delicious food can coexist, even when time is limited. And for me, that’s the greatest takeaway of all.

Step-by-step

After a very cold evening spent watching my daughter at football practice, I really fancied some comfort food.