Pumpkin Chili
This pumpkin chili is a hearty stew that combines ground meat, pumpkin, beans, and smoky spices, slow-cooked to develop layered flavors. The final dish has a velvety texture with a rich, orange-hued broth and tender vegetables, making it both comforting and visually appealing.
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Calories: 350kcal
Servings: 6
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey or other ground meat
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 cups cubed pumpkin fresh or canned
- 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add a splash of oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion until translucent and fragrant, around 3-4 minutes. Transfer the onions to the slow cooker.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, then transfer to the slow cooker.
- Stir the cubed pumpkin, drained beans, diced tomatoes with juice, chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and broth into the slow cooker with the meat, onions, and garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cover and cook on low for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally until the pumpkin is tender and flavors meld.
- Check the chili and adjust seasoning as needed. If you want a thicker consistency, uncover and simmer on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Serve the pumpkin chili hot, garnished with fresh herbs or shredded cheese if desired, and enjoy its velvety, hearty texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 45g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 700mg | Potassium: 900mg | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 50mg | Iron: 3mg