Pumpkin chili is a cozy dish that’s perfect for fall! This tasty mix combines pumpkin, beans, tomatoes, and spices for a healthy twist on classic chili.
What I love about it is how the pumpkin adds a smooth texture and a hint of sweetness. It warms you right up, making chilly days a lot better! 🍂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient and gives a creamy texture. If you have fresh pumpkin, just peel, cube, and cook it until soft before adding it to your chili.
Ground Meat: Using beef or turkey adds heartiness. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter version, leave it out or swap in lentils or mushrooms for extra texture.
Beans: Black or pinto beans work well, but you can use chickpeas or kidney beans instead. It’s all about what you have on hand!
Spices: Always taste as you go! If you’re unsure about cayenne, start with less, since you can always add more heat later.
How Do I Make Sure My Chili is Well-Seasoned?
Seasoning is crucial for a delicious chili. Start by adding spices to the meat while it cooks—this helps release their flavors. After combining all the ingredients, let the chili simmer for a while; this allows the flavors to meld.
- Always taste before serving. You might want to add more salt or spices!
- If you love heat, feel free to sprinkle in some hot sauce or add more cayenne pepper.
- Some fresh lime juice right before serving adds a nice brightness!
How to Make Delicious Pumpkin Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional for meat version)
- 1 can (15 oz) black or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Pumpkin and Seasoning:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (or cubed fresh pumpkin)
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro or chopped green onions, for garnish
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for topping
- Tortilla chips, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pumpkin chili takes about 10 minutes to prep, and then you’ll simmer it for about 30-40 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 50 minutes of cooking time. It’s quick, cozy, and perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat (Optional):
If you’re using ground beef or turkey, add it to the pot now. Cook it while breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off at this point.
3. Add the Spices:
Now it’s time to add some flavor! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and cook for about a minute to help the spices release their incredible aromas.
4. Mix in the Main Ingredients:
Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), pumpkin puree or fresh pumpkin cubes, tomato paste, beans, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the chili cook uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:
After simmering, taste your chili. Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or chili powder based on your preference. You want it to be just right!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle your delicious pumpkin chili into bowls. Top it off with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions. For a crunchy side, have some tortilla chips nearby.
Now dig in and enjoy every warm and flavorful bite of this hearty pumpkin chili! Perfect for those cozy fall evenings! 🍂
Can I Use Fresh Pumpkins Instead of Canned Puree?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, peel and cube it, then cook it until soft (about 15-20 minutes) before adding it to the chili. This will give your chili a lovely texture and flavor.
Is This Recipe Vegan-Compatible?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the ground meat and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add more beans or even lentils for extra protein and texture!
How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Chili?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot throughout.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for additional veggies. Just toss them in when you add the beans and other ingredients, and adjust the cooking time as needed for tenderness.