Pumpkin Chili

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin Chili is a comforting and nourishing dish that stands out, especially in the colder months. Using pumpkin adds a wonderful flavor and texture, making it a unique take on traditional chili. This recipe is also a great way to incorporate more veggies into your meals while being hearty enough to satisfy any appetite. Plus, it’s easy to make in a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time!

How to Make Pumpkin Chili

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

Directions:

1. In a slow cooker, brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat, then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add the pumpkin puree, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm, garnished with your favorite toppings like sour cream or chopped cilantro.

How to Serve Pumpkin Chili

Serve Pumpkin Chili hot in bowls. Garnish with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or avocado to enhance the flavor. This dish pairs well with cornbread or crusty bread for digging into the chili.

How to Store Pumpkin Chili

To store your Pumpkin Chili, allow it to cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Chili

• If you like it spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with additional beans or lentils.
• Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if you like a thinner chili.
• Letting the chili sit overnight in the fridge allows flavors to deepen, making it even tastier.

Variation

You can experiment with different beans, like black beans, or add veggies like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and texture. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding smoked paprika.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can! Just cook and puree the fresh pumpkin before adding it to the chili.

How spicy is this chili?
This recipe is mildly spicy due to the chili powder, but you can adjust the heat by adding more spices or hot sauce to suit your taste.

Can I make this chili on the stovetop instead of in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and adding all ingredients, bring it to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

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