Description
This Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a hearty and flavorful twist on classic chili, combining lean ground turkey with seasonal pumpkin puree and a blend of warming spices. Perfect for cooler weather, this recipe offers a comforting and nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and can be adapted for slow cooking.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound lean ground turkey (96% lean)
Spices and Seasonings
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
Main Ingredients
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (14 ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup or brown sugar
- 3/4 to 1 cup chicken stock
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Season with a big pinch of kosher salt and pepper and cook until the vegetables are softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Brown the turkey: Add the ground turkey to the pot along with another pinch of salt and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat and cook until browned, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add spices and cook: Stir in chili powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, cumin, cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this spice mixture with the turkey for 2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Combine pumpkin and liquids: Mix in the pumpkin puree, fire-roasted tomatoes, pinto beans, maple syrup or brown sugar, and chicken stock. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the chili: Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the chili and add additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with your favorite chili toppings such as tortilla chips, fresh cilantro, avocado, or sour cream.
Notes
- You can easily double this recipe to make a larger batch for a crowd.
- This chili can simmer covered on the stove for several hours if you want deeper flavors.
- For a convenient alternative, brown the turkey first, then add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours.
