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Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin Chili
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Pumpkin Chili is a hearty, flavorful fall dish combining the natural sweetness and nutrition of pumpkin with classic chili spices and protein. This comforting one-pot meal is easy to prepare, versatile for both vegetarian and meat versions, and perfect for cozy autumn dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb lean ground beef, turkey, or 2 cups cooked/rinsed beans (black beans, kidney beans, or lentils)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1–2 bell peppers, chopped

Base & Flavorings

  • 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1–2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt, to taste

Liquids

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups chicken, beef, or vegetable broth/stock

Optional Toppings

  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh cilantro or herbs
  • Diced avocado
  • Roasted pumpkin seeds

Optional Variations/Add-ins

  • Cayenne pepper, chipotle, or diced jalapeños (for extra spice)
  • Smoked paprika and a dash of maple syrup (for sweet-smoky flavor)
  • Chopped sweet potatoes or zucchini (for chunky texture)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
  2. Brown the Meat or Cook Beans: Add your choice of ground meat or rinsed beans to the pot, cooking until browned or fully heated through. This step develops the hearty base of your chili.
  3. Add Peppers and Spices: Stir in chopped bell peppers along with chili powder, cumin, salt, and any other desired spices. Mix well to evenly coat vegetables and meat with the aromatic flavors.
  4. Stir in Tomato and Pumpkin: Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and pumpkin puree. Stir thoroughly to combine; the pumpkin adds a creamy texture and balances the tomatoes’ acidity.
  5. Simmer and Blend Flavors: Add broth, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
  6. Final Taste and Adjust: Taste your Pumpkin Chili and adjust seasonings as needed — add more salt, spice, or a touch of sweetness until it suits your preference perfectly.

Notes

  • Use fresh pumpkin puree when possible for richer flavor.
  • Simmering the chili helps all ingredients blend into a luscious, well-rounded dish.
  • Balance the pumpkin’s natural sweetness with chili spices for complexity.
  • Add beans during the last 10 minutes to prevent mushiness.
  • Let the chili rest and develop flavor further by serving the next day.
  • To thicken a watery chili, simmer uncovered longer or stir in cornmeal or masa harina.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chili, fall recipe, hearty chili, vegetarian chili, pumpkin puree, autumn dinner, healthy chili, one-pot meal

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/pumpkin-chili/