Celebrate the flavors of the season with our Pumpkin Chili, a comforting and hearty dish that combines the richness of pumpkin with the savory goodness of ground beef. This recipe is a delightful fusion of autumnal spices, vegetables, and protein, creating a chili that’s as warming as it is flavorful. Join us on a culinary journey as we unravel the secrets behind crafting a bowl of Pumpkin Chili that captures the essence of fall and delivers a symphony of taste in every spoonful.
Ingredients
Meat
- 2 lbs Ground beef
Produce
- 1 Green bell pepper
- 2 (15 ounce) cans Kidney beans
- 1 Onion, large
- 1/2 cup Pumpkin puree, canned
- 1 (28 ounce) can Tomatoes, with juice
Baking & Spices
- 1 tbsp Chili powder
- 1 tbsp Pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 cup White sugar
Drinks
- 1 (46 fluid ounce) can Tomato juice
Instructions
- Sauté Ground Beef:
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add Vegetables:
- Dice the onion and green bell pepper. Add them to the pot with the browned ground beef and sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Incorporate Pumpkin and Spices:
- Stir in the canned pumpkin puree, chili powder, pumpkin pie spice, and white sugar. Allow the spices to mingle with the other ingredients, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Introduce Beans and Tomatoes:
- Drain and rinse the kidney beans before adding them to the pot. Include the canned tomatoes with their juice. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in Tomato Juice:
- Add the tomato juice to the pot, ensuring that all the ingredients are well immersed. This adds depth to the chili base.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the chili and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chili powder. For sweetness, a touch more sugar.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the Pumpkin Chili into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Pumpkin Texture: If you want a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree the chili once it’s cooked.
- Additional Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional content by adding diced carrots, celery, or butternut squash.
Keto Versions
For a keto-friendly adaptation, replace the white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener, and opt for a lower-carb tomato juice or dilute it with water. Adjust the pumpkin puree quantity to align with your carb goals.
Low Carb Version
Create a low-carb version by reducing the amount of kidney beans and using a sugar substitute. Consider substituting tomato juice with a low-carb broth or a combination of broth and crushed tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- A1: Certainly! Ground turkey or even ground chicken can be a delicious alternative.
Q2: Can I make Pumpkin Chili in a slow cooker?
- A2: Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours.
Q3: Can I freeze Pumpkin Chili?
- A3: Yes, Pumpkin Chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags.
Q4: What’s the purpose of sugar in the recipe?
- A4: The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the overall flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.
Q5: Is Pumpkin Chili spicy?
- A5: The level of spiciness can be adjusted based on your preference. Add more chili powder or incorporate chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.
Dive into the heartwarming embrace of fall with our Pumpkin Chili, a recipe that encapsulates the essence of the season. The combination of pumpkin, spices, and savory ingredients creates a chili that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or serve it at festive gatherings, this Pumpkin Chili is sure to evoke the spirit of autumn. As you savor each spoonful, may the warmth and richness of this dish bring joy to your table and a sense of harvest bliss to your culinary repertoire.
