This is a distinct and flavorful chili recipe that combines ground turkey, white beans, and pumpkin. It's a warming, hearty dish perfect for the chilly days of fall and winter. The unique addition of pumpkin adds a sweet depth and creamy texture to the chili, making it a truly comforting meal.
For this recipe, you may need to make a special trip to the supermarket for ground turkey, white northern beans, and pumpkin puree. Ground turkey is a lean, protein-packed alternative to beef, while the white northern beans, also known as cannellini beans, have a creamy texture and mild flavor that pairs well with the turkey and pumpkin. Pumpkin puree adds a sweet, rich flavor to the chili. Make sure to purchase pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Turkey, White Bean, and Pumpkin Chili Ingredients
ground turkey: This is the main protein source in our chili. It's leaner than beef, but still gives a great 'meaty' flavor to the dish.
olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, and helps to create a flavorful base for our chili.
onion: Adds a savory flavor to the dish.
garlic: Gives a depth of flavor.
chili powder: This will add some heat to our chili.
bay leaves: These add an aromatic and slightly bitter flavor.
cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
oregano: A key herb that adds a robust, earthy flavor.
white northern beans: These beans add a creamy texture and mild flavor.
pumpkin puree: Adds a sweet, rich flavor and makes the chili extra hearty.
green chile: Adds a spicy kick to the chili.
chicken broth: This forms the liquid base of the chili, adding depth of flavor and moisture to the dish.
kosher salt and pepper: These will be used to season the dish to your liking.
One reader, Engracia Clements says:
This turkey white bean pumpkin chili recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is incredible, and it's so hearty and satisfying. The pumpkin adds a unique twist that I absolutely love. It's become a staple in my fall menu rotation. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Cooking Techniques for Making Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
How to brown ground turkey: In a large heavy saute pan over high heat, lightly spray with oil. Add the ground turkey and cook, breaking it up until it turns white, for about 5 minutes.
How to sauté onions and garlic: In the same saute pan, add olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become translucent.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with kosher salt and pepper to your preference before serving.
How to remove bay leaves: Once the cooking is complete, carefully remove the bay leaves from the chili before serving.
How To Make Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
Make a savory pumpkin chili dish with turkey, white bean, pumpkin puree, and green chili for Fall season. Top with some cheddar cheese for a tasty garnish!
Serves:
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 2lbsground turkey,99% lean
- ½tspolive oil
- 1smallonion,chopped
- 3garlic cloves,minced
- 1tspchili powder,to taste
- 2bay leaves
- 1 ½tbspcumin
- 1tsporegano
- 30ozwhite northern beans,or navy beans, rinsed and drained (2 cans)
- 15ozpumpkin puree,(1 can) or homemade
- 4 ½ozgreen chile,canned, chopped
- 2cupschicken broth,low-sodium
- kosher salt and pepper to taste
- cilantro,or red onion or chives, chopped, for garnish,
- Greek yogurt,or low-fat sour cream, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Heat a large heavy saute pan over high heat and lightly spray with oil.
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Add meat and cook, breaking it up until white, for about 5 minutes. Add to crockpot.
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Add oil to the saute pan, then onions, garlic, sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes. Add cumin and sauté for another 1 minute. Add to crockpot.
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Add beans, pumpkin puree, green chilis, broth, chili powder, oregano, and bay leaves.
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Cover and cook on High for 4 hours or Low for 8 hours.
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Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning to taste before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 295.89kcal
- Fat: 14.10g
- Saturated Fat: 2.72g
- Trans Fat: 0.10g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.35g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.77g
- Carbohydrates: 20.74g
- Fiber: 5.67g
- Sugar: 7.47g
- Protein: 25.45g
- Cholesterol: 71.15mg
- Sodium: 811.22mg
- Calcium: 143.63mg
- Potassium: 849.99mg
- Iron: 7.51mg
- Vitamin A: 458.61µg
- Vitamin C: 84.70mg
Helpful Technique Tip for Preparing Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
When cooking the ground turkey, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This will not only ensure that the turkey cooks evenly, but also that each bite of your chili has a good distribution of meat. Additionally, when adding the pumpkin puree, make sure to stir it in well to fully incorporate it into the chili. This will give your chili a smooth texture and a subtle, sweet pumpkin flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Chili Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned beans instead of dried ones to skip the soaking and boiling process.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a pressure cooker or instant pot for a quicker cooking time and less cleanup.
Double batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra portions for a convenient meal in the future.
Kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep and cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe
ground turkey - Substitute with ground chicken: Ground chicken can be used as a lean alternative to ground turkey, providing a similar texture and flavor profile.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and high smoke point, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil in cooking.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, adding a subtle complexity to the dish.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient alternative to fresh garlic, providing a consistent flavor throughout the dish.
chili powder - Substitute with ancho chili powder: Ancho chili powder offers a slightly smoky and mild heat, enhancing the chili's flavor with a rich, earthy taste.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can replace cumin with its citrusy and slightly sweet flavor, adding a unique twist to the chili.
oregano - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a similar earthy and aromatic flavor to the dish.
white northern beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable replacement for white northern beans.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor, similar to pumpkin, adding richness to the chili.
green chile - Substitute with jalapeno: Jalapenos can replace green chilies, providing a moderate heat and fresh, crisp flavor to the chili.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a savory base for the chili while catering to vegetarian preferences.
cilantro - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can replace cilantro, offering a fresh and slightly peppery flavor to the dish.
greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream can be used as a substitute for Greek yogurt, providing a creamy and tangy topping for the chili.
Best Presentation Ideas for Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
Elevate the plating: When presenting the turkey white bean pumpkin chili, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish. The goal is to entice the senses and create an inviting presentation.
Garnish with fresh cilantro: Add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor by sprinkling the top of the chili with vibrant, aromatic cilantro leaves. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a delightful herbal note to the dish.
Incorporate a dollop of Greek yogurt: Place a small, carefully positioned dollop of Greek yogurt on top of the chili. This adds a touch of creaminess and a contrasting white element that complements the rich, earthy tones of the chili.
Consider the placement of the bowl: Pay attention to the placement of the bowl on the plate. Aim for a balanced and centered position, ensuring that the presentation looks deliberate and well-composed.
Emphasize the use of negative space: Utilize the empty space on the plate to create a sense of elegance and sophistication. Avoid overcrowding the plate, allowing the chili to take center stage while maintaining a clean and polished presentation.
Attention to detail with the drizzle: If desired, consider adding a subtle drizzle of olive oil on top of the chili just before serving. This adds a touch of richness and sheen, elevating the overall presentation.
Select the right serving utensils: Choose elegant and appropriate serving utensils that complement the style of the dish. This attention to detail enhances the overall dining experience and demonstrates a commitment to culinary excellence.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chili
Large heavy saute pan: This is used for sautéing the ground turkey, onions, and garlic. It provides a large surface area for even cooking.
Crockpot: The crockpot is used for slow cooking the chili, allowing the flavors to meld together over several hours.
Spatula: A spatula is essential for stirring and breaking up the ground turkey as it cooks.
Chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is needed for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure out the spices and seasonings for the chili.
Can opener: This is used to open the cans of white northern beans, pumpkin puree, and green chiles.
Ladle: A ladle is used for serving the chili once it is cooked.
Tongs: Tongs are helpful for transferring and handling the cooked ground turkey and vegetables.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to lightly coat the saute pan to prevent sticking.
Large spoon: A large spoon is used for stirring the chili as it cooks and for serving.
Storing and Freezing Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
- Let the turkey chili cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags.
- If using freezer bags, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store the chili in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- To freeze, place the airtight container or freezer bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen chili overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed or refrigerated chili in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the chili appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed before serving the reheated chili.
How To Reheat Leftover Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover chili to a large pot or saucepan. Heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure even reheating. If the chili appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover chili in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the chili is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover chili to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili is heated through. Stir the chili halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating. This method is particularly useful if you have a large quantity of leftover chili.
Slow cooker method: if you have a small amount of leftover chili, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the chili to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the chili reheat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is convenient if you want to reheat the chili while you're busy with other tasks.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the chili well before serving to distribute the heat evenly. Taste the reheated chili and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage. Serve the reheated turkey white bean pumpkin chili with your favorite toppings, such as cilantro, greek yogurt, shredded cheese, or sliced jalapeños, for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Interesting Fact About Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili
The pumpkin chili recipe is a great source of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.
Is Making Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Cost-Effective?
This turkey white bean pumpkin chili recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as ground turkey, white northern beans, and pumpkin puree, are affordable and readily available. The dish is hearty and nutritious, making it a great option for feeding a family. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20, making it an economical choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, flavor, and nutritional value.
Is This Chili Recipe Healthy?
This turkey white bean pumpkin chili recipe is a healthier alternative to traditional chili recipes. The use of lean ground turkey instead of beef reduces the saturated fat content, while the addition of white beans provides a good source of protein and fiber. Pumpkin puree is also a nutrient-dense ingredient, rich in vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and antioxidants. The combination of spices, including chili powder, cumin, and oregano, adds flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt.
To further enhance the nutritional value of this chili:
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding diced bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to boost the fiber content and provide additional vitamins and minerals
- Replace the chicken broth with low-sodium or homemade vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content
- Serve the chili with a side salad or steamed vegetables to increase the meal's overall nutrient density
- Opt for low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt as a topping to maintain the creamy texture while reducing the saturated fat content
- Use whole grain cornbread or crackers as an accompaniment to increase the fiber intake
Editor's Opinion on This Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe
The turkey white bean pumpkin chili recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground turkey, white beans, and pumpkin puree creates a rich and hearty base, while the spices and green chilies add a subtle kick. The use of bay leaves infuses a fragrant aroma, and the addition of cilantro and Greek yogurt provides a refreshing contrast. This recipe is a perfect balance of savory and comforting elements, making it a wonderful choice for a cozy meal on a chilly evening.
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Why trust this Turkey White Bean Pumpkin Chili Recipe:
This recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for a hearty meal. The combination of ground turkey, white northern beans, and pumpkin puree creates a rich and flavorful base. The addition of cumin and chili powder adds depth and warmth to the dish. With the use of chicken broth and green chiles, the flavors are further enhanced. The inclusion of cilantro and Greek yogurt as toppings provides a fresh and creamy contrast. Trust in the balance of ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a satisfying dining experience.
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