Wholesome Pumpkin Chili: A Rich and Quick Autumn Delight

As autumn settles in, a hearty pumpkin chili recipe promises to bring warmth and flavor to your dinner table. This dish, featuring a full can of pumpkin purée, elevates traditional chili with its creamy texture and rich body, without overwhelming the palate with pumpkin flavor.

In just 35 minutes, you can whip up this delightful meal, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive gathering like Halloween or game day. A unique approach to cooking ensures the ground beef remains tender, as it’s prepared directly in the spiced pumpkin mixture. The addition of Worcestershire sauce infuses a deep savory note, enhancing the overall taste.

For those looking to switch things up, ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be seamlessly substituted for the beef, offering versatility without sacrificing flavor. Canned butternut squash or sweet potato can also be used, provided they are purees and not sweetened pie fillings. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to five days or frozen for up to three months, making this dish as practical as it is delicious.

Cooking Instructions

To begin, heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and sauté chopped onion and jalapeño until softened. Add sliced garlic and stir until fragrant before incorporating the pumpkin purée along with smoked paprika and ground cumin. Once the mixture thickens, introduce the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings, stirring until the meat is fully cooked and mixed into the pumpkin base.

Next, add rinsed black and pinto beans, followed by chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then let it simmer until it reaches a thick, chili-like consistency. Finally, serve the chili topped with sour cream, roasted pumpkin seeds, and jalapeño slices for an added crunch.

Source: www.bonappetit.com