This hearty chili combines tender, creamy sweet potatoes with ground turkey, simmered in smoky spices and tangy tomatoes. The dish features a rustic texture with tender chunks of sweet potato and browned, flavorful turkey, creating a comforting bowl perfect for busy weeknights.
2largesweet potatoeswaxy, organic preferred, peeled and diced
1poundground turkeylean, browned until caramelized
1largeyellow oniondiced
3clovesgarlicsmash to release flavor
2tablespoonschili powdersmoked preferred
1teaspoonsmoked paprika
1/2teaspooncumin
1/4teaspooncayenne pepperadjust to spice tolerance
1can (14.5 oz)diced tomatoesfire-roasted optional
1cupchicken brothor vegetable broth for vegetarian option
1bell pepperbell pepperoptional, chopped
Saltto taste
Pepperto taste
Limefor servingsqueeze of limeoptional, brightens flavors
Fresh cilantrofor garnishhandful, choppedoptional
Instructions
Heat the large pot over medium heat and add a splash of oil. When shimmering, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes, until they turn sweet and fragrant.
Add the smashed garlic cloves to the pot and cook for 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant but not burnt.
Push the vegetables to the side and add the ground turkey. Cook until it’s browned and starting to crisp around the edges, about 8–10 minutes, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks.
Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute until the spices become fragrant, coating the meat and vegetables evenly.
Add the diced sweet potatoes and canned tomatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine everything well.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer gently for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sweet potatoes should be tender and the chili thickened.
Uncover the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the chili and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if desired, giving it a fresh, bright flavor.
Serve hot, ladled into bowls, and enjoy this cozy, flavorful chili packed with tender sweet potatoes and smoky-spiced turkey.
Notes
Feel free to customize the spice level and add other vegetables like corn or zucchini. For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of coconut milk before serving.