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That’s Cantastic: Easy Taco Soup Recipe from Canned Goods

Meggan Franks

Good nutrition is important throughout your life. It can help you feel your best, stay strong, and reduce the risk of some diseases that are common among older adults. Moreover, if you already have certain health issues, good nutrition can help you manage the symptoms.

Nutrition can sometimes seem complicated; however, the Food and Drug Administration has a simple tool to help you know exactly what you’re eating, which is a Nutrition Facts Label. You will find it on all packaged foods and beverages. It serves as your guide for making choices that can affect your long-term health.

Facts and Tips About Choosing Canned Goods

Canned foods can be a nutritious option when fresh foods aren't available, as they can provide essential nutrients and are convenient, but it's important to read labels and choose accordingly. Additionally, many canned foods do not contain any added ingredients at all, but the only way to know for sure is to read the ingredient list.

Be mindful of best-before dates and use canned goods before they expire. Furthermore, you should wipe or wash the top of all cans and containers before opening.

“Cantastic” Recipe: Easy Taco Soup

  • 1 can whole kernel corn
  • 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 can kidney (red) beans
  • 1 can great northern (white) beans
  • 1 can black beans
  • 1 pkg. dry taco seasoning mix
  • 1 pack dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1-2 cups water

Optional Ingredients:

  • Olive oil
  • 1 lb. ground beef, browned and drained
  • Corn chips, tortilla chips, or corn bread (optional topping)
  • Shredded cheese (any variety) (optional topping)
  • Sour Cream (optional topping)

Cooking Instructions:

  • Brown ground beef with the chopped onion, drain, or brown onions in olive oil. Add all canned items and seasonings, plus 1-2 cups of water. Do not drain any of the cans of beans, tomatoes, etc.
  • Simmer, uncovered, for at least one hour – add water as needed

Support Your Community: Donate Canned Goods to a Local Food Pantry

Visit Feeding America to find a local food bank in your area to donate to or support virtually https://www.feedingamerica.org/find-your-local-foodbank

Be sure to exercise caution when donating or visiting drop off locations. Learn more about how to safely donate and support food pantries during COVID-19 https://www.feedingamerica.org/take-action/coronavirus

If You Need Food Assistance

Find a food pantry in your Zip Code Area to donate to, or inquire about receiving assistant or transportation to a food pantry or soup kitchen by:

Article and recipe produced by Ruby Miller, Louisiana 4-H Volunteer Leaders Association, Southwest Regional Representative.

Sources:

4/16/2020 4:30:39 PM
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