Heartwarming Autumn Turkey Chili Recipe for Cozy Nights
As the weather gets cooler and the leaves start to change, there’s nothing quite like a warm and hearty bowl of chili to help you hunker down and get cozy. And when it comes to chili recipes, my Autumn Turkey Chili recipe is sure to become a fall staple in your kitchen. Packed with protein, fiber, and autumnal flavors, this chili is perfect for satisfying your cravings during the chillier months.
But why stop at just any old turkey chili recipe when you can add some pumpkin goodness to it? With smoky pumpkin puree and fragrant autumnal spices like oregano and cumin, this isn’t just any ordinary turkey chili recipe – it’s a comfort food masterpiece that has been perfected over time in my kitchen.
So if you’re ready to dive into some serious fall flavor and savor every last bite of a delicious chili that is as healthy as it is delicious, get ready to impress your taste buds with my Autumn Turkey Chili recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Friends, let me tell you about a recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy. An Autumn Turkey Chili Recipe that is not only delicious but also healthy and perfect for the fall season.
What makes this recipe unique is the use of pumpkin which gives it a rich and smoky flavor. The combination of ground turkey, black beans, and kidney beans make it a protein-rich dish that will keep you full for longer.
But wait, there’s more! It’s a low FODMAP recipe which means it’ll be gentle on your digestive system. Plus, if you’re looking to cut down on dairy or lactose intake, the light coconut milk in this recipe is a perfect alternative to cream or milk.
This recipe is also versatile, you can modify it to fit your preferences. Don’t like pumpkin? No problem, just swap it out with butternut squash. Want more heat? Add more chili powder or fresh ground pepper.
The best part? It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require too much prep work. All you need is a large pot or slow cooker and some basic ingredients from your pantry. In less than an hour, you’ll have a delicious meal ready for your family and friends.
So why not give this Autumn Turkey Chili Recipe a try? It’s the perfect fall comfort food filled with healthy ingredients that will warm you up from the inside out. Your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredient List
Autumn Turkey Chili is an enticing mixture of savory turkey, earthy pumpkin and spices that’ll transport you to the warmth of fall on a chilly day. The recipe calls for ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store and will put you in the spirit of the season. Here are the must-have ingredients you’ll need to make this healthy chili that’ll warm your heart:
Ground Turkey
One pound of lean ground turkey is perfect for this recipe. It’s a healthier alternative that will replace beef in this comforting dish.
Vegetables
A medley of vegetables such as onion, celery, carrot, and bell peppers add texture and color to this autumnal dish.
Pumpkin Puree
This velvety puree gives an earthy flavor and a smooth, thick texture to your chili. Don’t worry if you don’t have fresh pumpkins on hand; you can easily find canned pumpkin puree at your nearest grocery store.
Canned Beans
A good chili always has beans! This recipe calls for black beans. You may also opt to use kidney or pinto beans.
Spices
This golden-hued chili recipe consists of rich, smoky flavorings with just the right balance of heat. Including the basics like garlic cloves, dried oregano, ground cumin and chili powder adds depth, spice and punch to every spoonful.
Broth
Collaborate flavors with either low-sodium chicken or turkey broth. They both go well with the delicate taste of turkey meat.
Tomato Paste
Adding a few tablespoons of tomato paste makes the chili sauce richer by providing thickness and tanginess.
Apple
An unexpected ingredient, but one nice twist is mixing chopped apples into your chili; it balances the spices and brings a sweet hint to every bite.
Coconut milk
This creamy liquid softens the chili’s natural heat while adding depth and heightening its flavor profile. Use light or regular canned coconut milk, whichever suits your preference.
The Recipe How-To
Firstly, heat olive oil on a large pot over medium heat, then add onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they get slightly tender. Add the ground turkey into the pot and break it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the turkey is fully cooked, stirring occasionally.
Add Ingredients and Simmer
Besides the turkey, pour in one can of rinsed and drained black beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), pumpkin puree, tomato paste, low-sodium chicken broth, and light coconut milk into the pot. Stir well to combine everything.
Add chili powder, dried oregano, ground cumin, and freshly ground pepper. If a spicier chili is desired, increase chili powder amount according to preference. For extra seasonings, add more salt to taste.
After everything is added, let it simmer for at least 20-30 minutes on low heat. Longer cooking time will allow deeper flavors to develop and create a more delicious chili.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve this autumn turkey chili hot topped with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream or fresh sliced avocado to give an extra creamy flavor to your bowl.
Tip: This turkey chili recipe can be served with cornbread biscuits or tortilla chips as it loves any kind of dip!
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up with your Autumn Turkey Chili Recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try. Here are a few suggested substitutions to consider:
– Replace the ground turkey with ground beef or chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes like soy crumbles or black bean patties.
– Swap out black beans for kidney beans or pinto beans, or use a mixture of different beans for added variety.
– Try using different vegetables in place of the apples, celery, and carrots called for in the recipe. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash would add a nice autumnal sweetness, while zucchini or bell peppers would add some extra crunch.
– For a spicier flavor profile, increase the amount of chili powder and cumin used in the recipe. You can also add some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to give your chili a kick.
– If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, use ground turkey breast instead of lean ground turkey.
– For a creamy twist on the original recipe, try substituting the tomato paste and chicken broth with canned pumpkin puree and coconut cream.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! Just be sure to taste as you go to ensure that the flavors are balanced and harmonious.
Serving and Pairing
Autumn Turkey Chili is a comfort food that is perfect for chilly evenings and can be served in many ways. This healthy and delicious chili can be enjoyed with some toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, freshly chopped cilantro or even a squeeze of lime juice to add a bit of zing. You can serve it alone or pair it up with some warm cornbread, crusty bread or even some tortilla chips. You can also put a dollop of yogurt on the chili to add more depth and creaminess.
If you are looking for a wine pairing, a Malbec or Shiraz works well with this turkey chili as it complements the bold and smoky flavors. You can also try a crisp beer or cider which will cut through the richness of the dish.
For those who are vegetarian, you can swap out the ground turkey for kidney beans and black beans to make an equally delicious vegetarian chili. It still has all the same warm spices and veggies, but no meat.
Regardless of how you choose to serve it, Autumn Turkey Chili is a hearty meal that fills you up and warms you from the inside out. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or potlucks since it’s easy to double or triple the recipe (depending on your crowd). So, make a big pot of autumn harvest turkey chili and share it with your loved ones – this recipe is sure to become one of your fall comfort favorites!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
A great thing about this autumn turkey chili recipe is that it can easily be made ahead and stored in the fridge or freezer for a quick and easy meal later on. Once the chili has cooled, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When reheating your chili, it’s best to let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. To reheat it, simply place it in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes per serving. You can also reheat it on the stovetop by placing it in a saucepan over medium heat and stirring occasionally until warmed through.
One tip for reheating your chili is to add a splash of chicken broth or tomato juice to loosen it up if it’s too thick after being refrigerated or frozen. Also, be sure to taste your chili before reheating and adjust seasonings as needed.
This recipe is also perfect for meal prepping at the beginning of the week. Prepare a large batch over the weekend and portion out into individual servings for an easy option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Just be sure to store them properly in the fridge or freezer as mentioned above.
Overall, this autumn turkey chili recipe is a great option for those looking for an easy make-ahead meal that can be stored and reheated with ease. So go ahead, make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Tips for Perfect Results
Cooking a delicious turkey chili can take some effort, but the results are always rewarding. If you want to elevate your autumn turkey chili recipe and get the perfect taste and texture, here are some valuable tips to help you along the way.
Firstly, when cooking the ground turkey, make sure you use lean ground turkey. It’s healthier and will result in a better texture for your chili. The turkey should be fully cooked and browned before you add it to the chili pot. This will also give your dish that great smoky flavor that everyone loves.
Secondly, don’t forget to season your chili with salt and fresh ground pepper. These simple ingredients can do wonders for improving the taste of the dish. Don’t be afraid to taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Thirdly, adding butternut squash or pumpkin will give your chili a wonderful depth of flavor and a subtle sweetness that’ll balance out the spices perfectly. You could also add apples to complement the autumn harvest theme.
Fourthly, if using canned beans, make sure to rinse them off before adding them to your chili pot. This will help remove any excess salt or preservatives and give you a fresher taste.
Fifthly, if using a slow cooker, cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This allows all flavors to blend together perfectly without overcooking or burning anything.
Lastly, if serving with cilantro, chop it right before serving as it will lose its freshness if chopped ahead of time. You could also serve with some shredded cheese or sour cream if desired.
With these helpful tips and tricks, your autumn turkey chili recipe is sure to stand out amongst others.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this autumn turkey chili recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves fall comfort food with a twist of heartiness and spice. With its rich blend of savory spices, tender ground turkey, black beans, and smoky pumpkin flavor, this dish will have you and your loved ones quickly reaching for seconds. Plus, the recipe is incredibly adaptable to different dietary needs or preferences, such as omitting onion for low-FODMAP diets or using vegan protein substitutes for a meatless version.
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make – throw all the ingredients in a crockpot or large pot, and let it simmer until everything has melded together into mouthwatering goodness. And with plenty of room for variations and substitutions, you can make this dish your own and experiment with different spice levels, veggies, or beans.
In essence, this autumn turkey chili recipe is one that you’ll want to keep on repeat throughout the season – perfect for cozy nights in or for feeding a crowd at a fall gathering. So grab your apron and start cooking – your taste buds (and stomach) will thank you later!
Autumn Turkey Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery, chopped
- 2 cups apples, diced
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 lb ground turkey, cooked
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 1 (10 ounce) can undiluted chicken broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can light coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- coconut flakes and cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients (except garnishes) in slow cooler. Cook on high for 4-6 hours or on low for 8-10 hours.
- Serve with rice or mashed potatoes.
- TIPS: Use 4 cups diced cooked turkey or chicken in place of ground turkey.
- Open lid for last 45 minutes of cooking to thicken, if desired. Mash the squash with the back of a wooden spoon to thicken further.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.