This winter vegetable chili is a heartwarming dish that offers a delightful combination of winter vegetables and spices. It brings together the distinct flavors of parsnip, butternut squash, and cannellini beans, heightened by a mix of aromatic herbs and spices. This chili is perfect for those chilly winter nights when you want something comforting and nutritious.
While most of the ingredients in this recipe are common pantry items like onions, garlic, and spices, there may be a few that you don’t typically have on hand. Parsnip, a root vegetable similar to a carrot but with a sweeter and slightly spicy flavor, and butternut squash, known for its sweet, nutty taste similar to that of a pumpkin, might require a trip to the produce section of your local supermarket. Cannellini beans, a type of white beans popular in Italian cuisine for their creamy texture and mild, nutty flavor, can be found in the canned goods aisle.
Ingredients for the Winter Vegetable Chili
Olive oil: This is used for sautéing the vegetables and spices, providing a base flavor for the chili.
White onion: Adds a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Garlic: Provides a strong, pungent flavor that deepens the taste of the chili.
Parsnip: Adds a sweet and slightly spicy flavor to the chili.
Butternut squash: Adds a sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
Spices (paprika, oregano, cumin, allspice, chipotle powder): These give the chili its depth of flavor and heat.
Cannellini beans: These add protein and a creamy texture to the chili.
Cilantro: Provides a fresh, citrusy flavor that balances the richness of the chili.
Vegetable broth: This helps to bring all the flavors together and create the right consistency for the chili.
Cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy flavor and enhances the overall taste of the chili.
One reader, Jocelyne Carlin says:
This winter vegetable chili recipe is a game-changer! The combination of parsnips and butternut squash creates a hearty and comforting dish. The blend of spices adds a delightful warmth, and the cilantro and cheddar cheese on top are the perfect finishing touch. It's a must-try for chilly evenings!
Techniques for Making the Best Winter Vegetable Chili
How to sauté the vegetables: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, season with salt, and cook for 3 minutes until the onion starts to sweat and become translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes more until fragrant. Add the parsnips and butternut squash and season with salt, paprika, oregano, cumin, allspice, and chipotle powder. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
How to simmer the chili: After adding the cannellini beans, cilantro, and vegetable broth, increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil for 2 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, until the chili is thickened and the vegetables are cooked through.
How To Make Winter Vegetable Chili
Hearty and flavorful, this healthy Winter Vegetable Chili offers just the right spice, with butternut squash, beans, parsnip, herbs, and lots of spices!
Serves:
Ingredients
- olive oil,to taste
- 1medium white onion,diced
- kosher salt,to taste
- 3clovesgarlic,minced
- 2cupsparsnip,peeled, diced
- 3cupsbutternut squash,peeled, diced
- 1tsppaprika
- 2tspdried oregano
- 2tspground cumin
- ¼tspallspice
- 1½tspchipotle powder
- 28ozcannellini beans,drained
- ¼cupfresh cilantro,chopped, plus more for garnish
- 4cupsvegetable broth
- cheddar cheese,shredded, to garnish
Instructions
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In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
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Add the onion, season with salt, and cook for 3 minutes until the onion starts to sweat and become translucent.
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Add the garlic and cook for 2 minutes more until fragrant.
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Add the parsnips and butternut squash and season with salt, paprika, oregano, cumin, allspice, and chipotle powder.
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Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices.
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Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking until the vegetables begin to soften.
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Add the cannellini beans, cilantro, and vegetable broth.
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Increase the heat to medium-high and bring to a boil for 2 minutes.
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Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, until the chili is thickened and the vegetables are cooked through.
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Ladle the chili into bowls and top with cilantro and cheddar cheese.
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Enjoy.
Nutrition
- Calories: 430.31kcal
- Fat: 5.59g
- Saturated Fat: 0.88g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 3.37g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.95g
- Carbohydrates: 74.62g
- Fiber: 18.53g
- Sugar: 5.59g
- Protein: 24.60g
- Sodium: 743.61mg
- Calcium: 297.33mg
- Potassium: 2153.08mg
- Iron: 11.63mg
- Vitamin A: 300.08µg
- Vitamin C: 18.57mg
Expert Tip for Enhancing Your Winter Vegetable Chili
When preparing your butternut squash, make sure to peel it thoroughly and cut it into even pieces. This will ensure that it cooks evenly throughout the chili. Additionally, when seasoning your vegetables, don't be afraid to be generous. The spices are what give this winter vegetable chili its robust flavor. Remember, you can always adjust the amount of chipotle powder to your liking if you prefer a milder or spicier chili.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Winter Vegetable Chili
Prep ahead: Chop and store vegetables in advance to save time during the cooking process.
One-pot wonders: Choose recipes that require minimal dishes and cooking utensils for easy cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a large quantity of chili and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.
Use canned beans: Opt for canned beans instead of dried ones to cut down on cooking time.
Efficient chopping: Master knife skills to speed up the prep process and ensure uniform cooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Winter Vegetable Chili Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar high smoke point and mild flavor, making it a suitable substitute for olive oil in cooking.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a slightly stronger flavor but can be used as a substitute for white onions in most recipes.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt in equal amounts, providing a similar level of salinity.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, slightly sweet flavor similar to garlic when used as a substitute.
parsnip - Substitute with carrots: Carrots can be used as a substitute for parsnips, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and similar texture when cooked.
butternut squash - Substitute with acorn squash: Acorn squash can be used as a substitute for butternut squash, offering a similar sweet and nutty flavor.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can add a similar depth of flavor and smokiness as regular paprika in the recipe.
dried oregano - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme can be used as a substitute for oregano, providing a slightly different flavor profile with earthy and floral notes.
ground cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a similar warm and citrusy flavor.
allspice - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can provide a similar warm and sweet flavor as allspice when used as a substitute.
chipotle powder - Substitute with smoked paprika and cayenne mix: A combination of smoked paprika and cayenne can replicate the smoky heat of chipotle powder in the recipe.
cannellini beans - Substitute with great northern beans: Great northern beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a suitable substitute for cannellini beans.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can provide a similar fresh and slightly peppery flavor as cilantro when used as a substitute.
vegetable broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for vegetable broth, providing a savory base for the chili.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey jack cheese can be used as a substitute for cheddar, offering a mild and creamy flavor with good melting properties.
Presenting Your Winter Vegetable Chili
Elevate the plating: When presenting the winter vegetable chili, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the chili and its ingredients.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle a few fresh cilantro leaves on top of the chili to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Incorporate a cheese garnish: Grate a small amount of high-quality cheddar cheese over the top of the chili just before serving. The rich, creamy flavor of the cheese will complement the hearty, spicy chili.
Use a unique serving vessel: Consider serving the chili in individual, oven-safe ramekins. This adds a touch of elegance and allows for a more personalized presentation.
Accompany with a side: Serve the winter vegetable chili with a side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also provides a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.
Consider a drizzle of olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil over the chili. This adds a glossy sheen and a hint of richness to the dish.
Add a touch of heat: For a dramatic presentation, sprinkle a pinch of chipotle powder on top of the chili. This not only adds a pop of color but also hints at the bold flavors within the dish.
Use a contrasting plate: Choose a plate that contrasts with the colors of the chili, such as a deep blue or dark grey, to make the dish stand out.
Essential Tools for Making Vegetable Chili
- Oven: An essential appliance for baking, roasting, and broiling various dishes.
- Chef's knife: A versatile and sharp knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Saute pan: Used for sautéing, frying, and searing ingredients over direct heat.
- Stockpot: Ideal for making soups, stews, and boiling pasta due to its large capacity.
- Wooden spoon: A kitchen staple for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
- Whisk: Used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into various mixtures.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking cookies, roasting vegetables, and more.
- Saucepan: Perfect for heating sauces, boiling eggs, and cooking grains.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Vegetable Chili
- Allow the chili to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chili to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4-5 days in the fridge.
- When ready to reheat, warm the chili in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin out the consistency if it has thickened too much in the fridge.
- For freezing, transfer the cooled chili to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and contents.
- Frozen chili will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat frozen chili, first, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Then, transfer the thawed chili to a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a bit of vegetable broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- Alternatively, you can reheat frozen chili directly from the freezer. Transfer the frozen chili to a pot and warm it over low heat, stirring frequently and breaking up any frozen chunks, until it has thawed and heated through. This method may take a bit longer, but it's a convenient option if you forget to thaw the chili ahead of time.
Reheating Leftover Chili: Tips and Tricks
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover chili to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through. This method allows you to control the temperature and prevent the chili from burning or drying out. If the chili seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to thin it out.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of chili in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the chili in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. This method is quick and convenient, but be careful not to overheat the chili, as it can cause the vegetables to become mushy.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the chili to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chili is heated through. This method is ideal if you're reheating a large batch of chili or if you want to keep it warm for an extended period.
Slow cooker method: transfer the chili to a slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, or until it's heated through. This method is perfect if you want to reheat the chili while you're busy with other tasks or if you want to keep it warm for a party or gathering.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to stir the chili occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot or dish. You can also adjust the seasoning or add more toppings, such as cheddar cheese, cilantro, or sour cream, to refresh the flavors and make the leftover chili feel like a new meal.
Interesting Trivia About Winter Vegetable Chili
The winter vegetable chili recipe is a great source of nutrients, as parsnips and butternut squash are rich in vitamins and minerals. Both vegetables are excellent sources of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote a healthy gut. Additionally, the cannellini beans in the recipe provide a good source of plant-based protein, making this chili a hearty and satisfying meal.
Budget-Friendly Winter Vegetable Chili: Is It Economical?
This winter vegetable chili recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. With a variety of affordable ingredients such as parsnips, butternut squash, cannellini beans, and vegetable broth, it offers a budget-friendly option for feeding a family. The use of seasonal vegetables and pantry staples makes it an economical choice. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it a great value for a hearty and nutritious meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Chili Recipe Healthy?
This winter vegetable chili recipe is a nutritious and wholesome dish that offers a variety of health benefits. The combination of parsnips, butternut squash, and cannellini beans provides a good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness. The vegetables also offer a range of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, potassium, and folate. The use of olive oil and vegetable broth keeps the dish low in saturated fat, while the spices like paprika, oregano, cumin, and chipotle powder add flavor without relying on excessive amounts of salt.
To further enhance the healthiness of this chili:
- Consider reducing the amount of cheddar cheese or opting for a low-fat variety to decrease the overall fat content
- Add more vegetables, such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini, to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Incorporate lean protein sources, like ground turkey or tofu, to make the chili more satiating and balanced
- Serve the chili with whole-grain bread or crackers to provide additional fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Top the chili with fresh ingredients like diced avocado, low-fat Greek yogurt, or sliced jalapeños for added flavor and texture without significantly increasing the calorie count
Editor's Opinion: Why We Love This Winter Vegetable Chili Recipe
The winter vegetable chili recipe is a delightful blend of hearty vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a warm and comforting dish perfect for the colder months. The combination of parsnips, butternut squash, and cannellini beans provides a satisfying texture, while the chipotle powder adds a subtle smokiness. The use of fresh cilantro at the end adds a burst of freshness to the dish. The recipe is well-balanced and offers a delicious vegetarian option for chili lovers. The addition of cheddar cheese on top adds a creamy finish, making it a delightful and wholesome meal.
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Why trust this Winter Vegetable Chili Recipe:
This recipe uses fresh, seasonal vegetables such as parsnips and butternut squash, ensuring a flavorful and nutritious dish. The combination of paprika, oregano, cumin, and chipotle powder adds depth and warmth to the chili. Additionally, the use of cannellini beans and vegetable broth provides a hearty and satisfying base. The inclusion of cilantro as a finishing touch enhances the overall aroma and taste. Trust in the expertise of this recipe to deliver a comforting and wholesome winter vegetable chili experience.
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