Go Back
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, the arrival of fall invites us to embrace the warmth and comfort of hearty dishes. One of the most versatile and beloved ingredients of the season is pumpkin. Often associated with pies and lattes, pumpkin is much more than just a dessert topping; it's a nutritional powerhouse that can elevate a variety of savory dishes. In this article, we’ll explore the delightful Hearty Pumpkin Chili, a dish that combines the rich flavors of chili with the creamy texture of pumpkin puree, creating a meal that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Pumpkin Chili

Warm up your fall evenings with this Hearty Pumpkin Chili Delight! Packed with nutritious ingredients like pumpkin, beans, and colorful veggies, this chili is not only comforting but also low in calories and high in fiber. Easy to customize, it's perfect for cozy family dinners or game day gatherings. Elevate your dish with optional toppings like avocado or cilantro for extra flavor. Dive into this seasonal recipe and enjoy its rich flavors! #HeartyChili #PumpkinRecipes #ComfortFood #HealthyEating #FallRecipes #ChiliDelight #MealPrep

Ingredients
  

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 carrot, diced

1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional for heat)

1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree

1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

1 cup vegetable broth

1 tablespoon chili powder

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 lime, juiced

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Avocado, sliced (for garnish)

Sour cream (optional for serving)

Instructions
 

Sauté Veggies: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, carrot, and jalapeño, cooking for another 5 minutes until softened.

    Add Pumpkin & Spices: Stir in the pumpkin puree, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

      Combine Beans & Liquid: Add the black beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

        Season and Simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken slightly.

          Finish with Lime: Just before serving, stir in the fresh lime juice for a zesty flavor kick.

            Serve and Garnish: Ladle the chili into bowls, garnishing with chopped cilantro, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6-8