Hearty Pumpkin Chili: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hearty Pumpkin Chili
When the weather turns chilly and the leaves start to fall, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty pumpkin chili to bring comfort and satisfaction. This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a medley of beans and spices, creating a nourishing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. It’s easy to make, filling, and, best of all, it’s a recipe that everyone will love!
A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Pumpkin Chili Journey
Growing up, chili was a staple in my home. My family would gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter over bowls of steaming chili. When I discovered the combination of pumpkin and chili, I fell in love with the unique flavor it brings. It not only adds a delicious taste but also boosts the nutritional value, making it a wholesome option for everyone. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, especially during the cooler months!
What Makes This Hearty Pumpkin Chili Recipe Special?
This hearty pumpkin chili stands out because of its unique combination of ingredients. The pumpkin purée adds a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory spices beautifully. It’s also packed with protein from the beans and beef, making it a filling meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with your favorite toppings. Furthermore, it’s versatile; you can easily modify it for a vegetarian option or adjust the spice level to suit your taste. This recipe is all about comfort, flavor, and ease!
The Full Hearty Pumpkin Chili Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 15oz. can kidney beans, drained
- 1 15oz. can black beans, drained
- 1 15oz. can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 15oz. can pumpkin purée
- 1/2 6oz. can tomato paste (5 Tbsp)
- 2 cups water
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Mince the garlic and dice the onion. In a large pot, combine the garlic, onion, and olive oil. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are tender, about 5 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Tip: Break the beef apart with a spoon while cooking to ensure even browning.
- Stir in the drained kidney beans, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, pumpkin purée, tomato paste, water, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. Tip: If the chili gets too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the chili and add more salt if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, green onion, or corn chips. Note: For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans. Also, add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Pumpkin Chili
This hearty pumpkin chili can be served in various delightful ways. Top it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, or some chopped green onions for added flavor. Corn chips make an excellent crunchy side and can be used for dipping. You can also serve it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a more filling meal. If you want to try something different, serve it in a hollowed-out pumpkin for a festive touch!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Pumpkin Chili
Can I make this chili in advance? Yes! This chili tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover chili in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables to this chili? Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 6
Hearty Pumpkin Chili
Equipment
- Large pot For cooking the chili
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 unit yellow onion
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 15oz. can kidney beans drained
- 1 15oz. can black beans drained
- 1 15oz. can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 15oz. can pumpkin purée
- 5 Tbsp tomato paste 1/2 6oz. can
- 2 cups water
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 /2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 /4 tsp garlic powder
- 1 /2 tsp onion powder
- 1 /4 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Mince the garlic and dice the onion. In a large pot, combine the garlic, onion, and olive oil. Sauté over medium heat until the onions are tender, about 5 minutes. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Tip: Break the beef apart with a spoon while cooking to ensure even browning.
- Stir in the drained kidney beans, drained black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, pumpkin purée, tomato paste, water, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let the chili simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes. Tip: If the chili gets too thick, add a bit more water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste the chili and add more salt if needed. Serve hot with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, green onion, or corn chips. Note: For a vegetarian option, substitute beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans. Also, add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat!