This hearty Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is warm, comforting, and full of flavors! With tender turkey and sweet potatoes, it’s a delicious twist on classic chili.
I love how this chili warms me up on chilly days! Plus, it’s so easy to make, just toss the ingredients in and let it simmer. You’ll want a cozy blanket and a big bowl! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Lean ground turkey provides a great protein source. If you’re looking for less fat, turkey is a good choice. You can substitute with ground chicken or beef if you prefer a different flavor.
Sweet Potatoes: These add a delightful sweetness and texture to the chili. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or even butternut squash are acceptable alternatives.
Canned Black Beans: They bring fiber and protein to the dish. If black beans aren’t available, kidney beans or pinto beans can work well, too.
Spices: Don’t skimp on the spices! Chili powder and cumin are key for flavor. If you’re out of these, taco seasoning can be a good substitute- just adjust the amount to taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chili Has Great Flavor?
Flavor is key in chili! Start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil. This builds a strong base for your chili. Make sure not to rush; give them time to soften and sweeten.
- Cook the onion for about 4-5 minutes until it’s translucent.
- Always taste your chili while it cooks! You can adjust seasoning and spiciness as needed.
- Mix in the lime juice at the end. It brightens everything up and adds freshness!
Each step is important for that deep flavor you want in chili, so take your time and enjoy the process!
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Sliced avocado, for garnish
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet Potato Turkey Chili will take about 10 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes from start to finish to create this warm and comforting meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Ingredients:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 4-5 minutes. You want it to become soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells wonderful!
2. Brown the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want to brown it thoroughly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure it’s no longer pink!
3. Add the Veggies and Liquid:
Now it’s time to boost the chili with flavor and nutrition. Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), black beans, chicken broth (or water), and tomato paste. This is where your chili starts to come together!
4. Spice It Up:
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. Salt and pepper will enhance all the flavors, so taste and adjust as needed. Stir everything very well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Let It Simmer:
Bring your chili to a lovely boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally and check that the sweet potatoes are tender but not mushy.
6. Final Touches:
Once your chili is ready, remove it from the heat and stir in the fresh lime juice. This little addition really brightens the flavors!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your chili hot, and don’t forget the toppings! Add slices of avocado, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves right before serving for that extra touch.
This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a lovely blend of flavors and textures, making it a comforting meal for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef for turkey if you prefer a richer flavor. Just be mindful that ground beef can be higher in fat, so you might want to drain some of the excess fat after browning it.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground turkey with a can of lentils or extra beans like kidney or chickpeas for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a flavorful base.
Can I Prepare This Chili in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this chili ahead of time! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!
What Can I Serve with Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?
This chili is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, warm tortillas, or over rice. It also pairs well with a simple green salad for a balanced meal!
