Cozy Pumpkin Fall Chili
This comforting fall chili combines the richness of pumpkin purée with hearty ground meat, beans, and smoky spices, all cooked slowly to develop deep flavor and a thick, inviting texture. The dish is a warm, vibrant orange with a spicy aroma, offering a satisfying and homestyle meal perfect for chilly days.
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Calories: 350kcal
Servings: 6
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Large Skillet
- Sharp Knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey preferably lean
- 1 cup canned pumpkin purée organic preferred
- 1 can (14 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans or kidney beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder adjust to taste
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon optional, for warmth
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp oil for sautéing
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add oil, and brown the ground meat for about 5-7 minutes until it develops crispy edges and releases flavorful juices.
- While the meat cooks, dice the onion and mince the garlic. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and golden, filling the kitchen with warm, savory aromas.
- Transfer the browned meat along with the sautéed aromatics into the slow cooker. Stir in the pumpkin purée, fire-roasted tomatoes, rinsed beans, broth, chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon if using, combining everything well.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken, filling your kitchen with smoky, spicy aroma.
- After 6 hours, check the chili; it should be thick, bubbling around the edges, and fragrant. If it’s too thick, stir in a splash of broth. If too runny, uncover and cook on high for 30 minutes to thicken further.
- Taste the chili and adjust seasonings with salt or additional spices as needed, ensuring a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet flavors from the pumpkin.
- Once ready, turn off the slow cooker and let the chili rest for about 10 minutes to settle. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor and creaminess.
Nutrition
Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 70mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 900mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 20mg | Calcium: 60mg | Iron: 4mg