Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe

How to make Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Pumpkin Turkey Chili is a heartwarming and satisfying dish that intertwines the flavors of traditional chili with the subtle sweetness and creamy texture of pumpkin. This innovative chili variation adds a seasonal twist to the classic beef-based recipe, making it an especially popular choice in the autumn months but enjoyable all year round.

Ground turkey serves as the primary protein in this dish, offering a leaner but equally flavorful alternative to red meat. It’s often browned with onions and garlic to build a savory flavor foundation. To this, a blend of chili-centric spices such as cumin, chili powder, paprika, and sometimes a dash of cinnamon or cloves might be added to echo the warmth of pumpkin spice without detracting from the robustness of the chili.

Then comes the distinctive ingredient—pumpkin. Typically, pureed pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) is stirred into the mix, which helps to thicken the chili and provides a velvety texture along with additional nutritional benefits. The pumpkin’s natural sweetness balances the heat from the chili spices and complements the savoriness of the turkey.

Beans are also common in this type of chili, with options like black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans adding heartiness and fiber. A variety of other vegetables can be included according to preference, such as bell peppers, corn, or zucchini, to further enhance the chili’s flavor profile and nutritional value.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili is typically simmered until all its flavors meld together beautifully, becoming more pronounced as they intermingle. To serve, the chili might be topped with a range of garnishes, such as a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, fresh cilantro, or green onions. Some may even sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds on top for an added crunch and to reinforce the pumpkin theme.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili Recipe

Turkey Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Pumpkin Turkey Chili is an inviting, cozy meal option for a chilly evening, blending classic chili elements with the novelty of pumpkin for a delightful culinary experience.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine Chinese
Servings 4 people
Calories 531 kcal

Equipment

  • 1  large skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tbsp coconut oil
  • 1 1/2 lb turkey ground
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large shallot chopped
  • 1 32 ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 14 ounce can diced tomatoes
  • 1 14 ounce can pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
  • 3 cups sweet potato cubed
  • 2 cups kale chopped
  • 1 cup low sodium chicken broth
  • to taste sea salt
  • to taste black pepper ground
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • pinch red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 small bunch cilantro chopped

Instructions
 

  • Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly brown the ground turkey, stirring in garlic and shallot. After about a minute, transfer to crock cooker and add all remaining ingredients EXCEPT cilantro.
  • Stir well until fully combined, and then cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Serve with a sprinkle of cilantro. Serve hot.
Keyword Pumpkin, Turkey

Tips for making about Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Hearty Turkey Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans « Clean & Delicious

Cooking tips

Pumpkin Turkey Chili merges the robust flavors of ground turkey and pumpkin, creating a dish that is both hearty and reminiscent of autumnal comfort.

To start, it’s important to choose the right type of pumpkin. Pie pumpkins, also known as sugar pumpkins, are ideal for cooking as their flesh is less fibrous and more flavorful than that of larger carving pumpkins. When preparing the pumpkin, it should be peeled, seeded, and cut into cubes. For convenience, canned pumpkin puree can be substituted, ensuring it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.

For the turkey component, lean ground turkey is a healthier choice than regular ground turkey as it contains less fat. It also absorbs the array of spices well, which is key for building flavour in a chili.

Sautéing onions and garlic as the base of the chili is critical in developing a depth of flavor. Once they are aromatic and tender, the ground turkey can be added and browned. Ensuring the turkey is fully cooked before proceeding is crucial for both safety and taste.

Next, spices such as cumin, chili powder, oregano, and perhaps a bit of cinnamon or clove can complement both the pumpkin and the turkey and should be toasted briefly with the meat to unlock their flavors.

The addition of beans is often debated in chili recipes, but they can provide a great source of fiber and an additional texture to the dish. Kidney beans or black beans are typical choices that blend well in the chili.

Once the meat and spices are combined, the pumpkin should be added to the pot. Fresh pumpkin will need to cook until tender, while canned puree will simply need to be warmed through and incorporated. This is also the stage to add a liquid, such as chicken or vegetable broth, which will help to bring together all the elements of the chili while allowing the flavors to meld together.

A little acidity can brighten the flavors, so incorporating a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice towards the end of cooking can add balance to the rich and spicy notes of the chili.

Lastly, allowing the chili to simmer uncovered will thicken the consistency and concentrate the flavors. Chili generally improves after a day or so, as the ingredients have more time to harmonize.

Serving suggestions

Turkey Pumpkin Chili | The Modern Proper

  • Accompaniments: Serve the chili with a side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread to sop up the savory broth. A side of tortilla chips can also add a satisfying crunch.
  • Toppings: Encourage guests to customize their chili with toppings like chopped fresh cilantro, diced avocado, shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack are popular choices), a dollop of sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for those who prefer some extra heat. Toasted pumpkin seeds can be a festive and texturally delightful garnish as well.
  • Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses for topping. Smoky gouda or spicy pepper jack could provide a unique flavor profile in contrast to the more traditional cheddar.
  • Greens: Pairing the chili with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish and refresh the palate.
  • Starchy Sides: For something more substantial, consider serving the chili over a bed of brown rice or quinoa, or alongside roasted sweet potatoes which complement the sweetness of the pumpkin.
  • Wine Pairings: A glass of bold red wine such as a Zinfandel or Syrah can accompany the meal nicely, matching the heartiness of the chili without overpowering the subtle pumpkin flavor.
  • Kids’ Twist: To make the dish more appealing to children, serve it with a side of apple slices or carrot sticks, and let them top their chili with crushed tortilla chips or goldfish crackers for a playful touch.
  • Seasonal Flair: Embrace the autumn theme by serving the chili in hollowed-out mini pumpkins for an impressive presentation at a dinner party or special event.

Top 5 FAQs about Pumpkin Turkey Chili

Easy Pumpkin Chili Recipe

  • Can I use a different type of meat instead of turkey in Pumpkin Turkey Chili? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey with other meats such as ground chicken, beef, or pork. The cooking process remains the same, but keep in mind that the different fat content and flavor profiles will slightly alter the overall taste of the chili.
  • What if I don’t have fresh pumpkin for Pumpkin Turkey Chili? If fresh pumpkin is unavailable, canned pumpkin puree is an excellent alternative. Ensure it is pure pumpkin puree rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that would not be suitable for the recipe.
  • How do I store leftover Pumpkin Turkey Chili, and how long will it last in the fridge? Leftover Pumpkin Turkey Chili should be cooled to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Chilis typically taste better after the first day as the flavors continue to meld together.
  • Can Pumpkin Turkey Chili be frozen, and if so, how do I reheat it? Absolutely, this chili freezes well. Cool it to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a little broth if necessary to adjust the consistency.
  • What are some healthy toppings I can add to my Pumpkin Turkey Chili? There are many nutritious toppings you can add. Consider dollops of Greek yogurt as a sour cream substitute, chopped chives or green onions, diced avocado, shredded cheese varieties like reduced-fat cheddar, roasted pumpkin seeds for an added crunch, or fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of flavor.

Pumpkin Turkey Chili, as a dish, represents an innovative twist on traditional chili recipes by incorporating pumpkin, which is not commonly used in such dishes. The use of pumpkin can provide a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture that complements the savory taste of turkey. This autumnal variant not only offers a seasonal touch to the meal but might also deliver additional nutritional benefits. Pumpkin is a good source of vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, which can be beneficial for overall health.

When creating a conclusion about Pumpkin Turkey Chili, one might consider the balance of flavors, the nutritional profile, and the culinary experience it offers. The combination of lean turkey, a source of high-quality protein, with the fibrous and vitamin-rich pumpkin can result in a hearty, yet healthier, alternative to beef-based chilis. Additionally, the spices commonly found in chili, such as cumin, chili powder, and garlic, would need to be thoughtfully adjusted to accommodate the sweetness of the pumpkin without overpowering it.


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