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Hearty Pumpkin Chili

Close-up of a bowl of hearty Pumpkin Chili with chunks of pumpkin, black beans, and ground meat.

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A comforting fall twist on classic chili, this recipe incorporates pumpkin for a subtle sweetness, thickness, and added nutrition. It’s a warming and satisfying dish perfect for a cool evening.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound ground turkey
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add ground turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed and drained kidney beans and black beans, pumpkin puree, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pot.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine all ingredients.
  6. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
  7. Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. For deeper flavor, simmer for up to an hour.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  9. Serve hot, with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, omit the ground turkey and add an extra can of beans or some diced sweet potato.
  • Adjust the chili powder and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
  • This chili freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

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