Apple Sage Turkey Chili: The Ultimate Turkey Chili Recipe

Name: Apple Sage Turkey Chili
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 cup sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots); 2 cup sliced sweet potatoes (halved and quartered, about 2 small sweet potatoes); 2 cup diced apples (from about 2 apples); 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 2 tsp salt (divided); 0.5 tsp pepper; 1.5 tsp rubbed sage (divided); 0.5 tsp cinnamon; 0 nutmeg (a sprinkle); 2 lbs ground lean turkey; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp chili powder; 3 cup crushed tomatoes; 2 cup strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce); 1 can kidney beans

Introduction to Apple Sage Turkey Chili

Apple Sage Turkey Chili is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of turkey, sweet potatoes, and apples. Perfect for chilly evenings, this chili is not just warm and filling but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe provides a comforting meal that everyone will love.

A Personal Story Behind My Apple Sage Turkey Chili Journey

Growing up, chili was a staple in my home, especially during the fall and winter months. My mother would often experiment with different ingredients, and one day she added apples and sage to the traditional recipe. The result was a delicious surprise! Since then, I’ve embraced this unique combination in my own cooking, and it has become a family favorite.

What Makes This Apple Sage Turkey Chili Recipe Special?

What sets this chili apart is the blend of sweet and savory. The sweetness of the apples and sweet potatoes balances perfectly with the savory flavors of the turkey and spices. Additionally, using lean turkey makes this dish a healthier option without sacrificing taste. It’s a perfect way to sneak in some extra veggies while enjoying a comforting bowl of chili.

The Full Apple Sage Turkey Chili Recipe

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil

2 cups sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
2 cups sliced sweet potatoes, halved and quartered (about 2 small sweet potatoes)

2 cups diced apples (from about 2 apples)
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp garlic powder

2 tsp salt, divided
1/2 tsp pepper
1 1/2 tsp rubbed sage, divided

1/2 tsp cinnamon
A sprinkle of nutmeg
2 lbs ground lean turkey

3 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp chili powder
3 cups crushed tomatoes

2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
1-2 cans kidney beans

Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will help prevent sticking and enhance the flavors of the vegetables.

Add the diced apples, sliced sweet potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon rubbed sage, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and a sprinkle of nutmeg. Mix well with a spatula and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it into smaller pieces, and cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink. Make sure to stir frequently for even cooking.
Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 teaspoons of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of rubbed sage, and 1 teaspoon of salt until the tomato paste is evenly mixed. This step adds depth to the chili’s flavor.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes, then stir to combine. The mixture should start to look rich and inviting.
Reduce the heat to low-medium and simmer for 20-30 minutes. If using kidney beans, add them towards the end of the cooking time to keep them from getting too mushy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Apple Sage Turkey Chili

This chili is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh avocado slices. For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also modify the recipe by adding other beans like black beans or pinto beans, or even incorporating corn for added sweetness and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Sage Turkey Chili

Can I make this chili in advance?
Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is this chili spicy?
This recipe is mild, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or including hot peppers if you prefer a spicier chili.

Can I use other meats instead of turkey?
Absolutely! If you prefer beef, you can substitute it in the same quantity. Just be mindful of the cooking time as ground beef may require longer to cook thoroughly.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can replace the turkey with a hearty mix of beans and lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based sauces for a delicious vegetarian option.

Enjoy a hearty and flavorful turkey and vegetable chili that’s perfect for cozy nights in!

Recipe Stats

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Calories per Serving: 350
Servings: 6