This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a warm and hearty dish that combines ground turkey with sweet potatoes and beans. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for chilly days!
You’ll love how the sweet potatoes add a nice touch of sweetness, balancing out the spices. I enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side—so good! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This is a lean protein that keeps the chili lighter. If you prefer, you can use ground chicken or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish, adding natural sweetness. If you don’t have sweet potatoes, you can use regular potatoes or butternut squash instead.
Black Beans: These beans add protein and fiber. If you’re not a fan of black beans, feel free to swap them out for kidney beans or pinto beans. Canned beans save time, but dried beans are a great alternative if soaked and cooked ahead of time.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika create a warm flavor. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices according to your taste; adding more chili powder or even some taco seasoning can give it a nice twist!
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Are Perfectly Soft?
Getting sweet potatoes perfectly tender can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to ensure they cook well in your chili:
- Cut them into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to help them cook evenly.
- Cook the chili gently, covered, to allow steam to soften the sweet potatoes. Stir occasionally.
- If you find they aren’t soft after the initial cooking time, just let the chili simmer longer! You can add a splash of broth if it looks too thick.
Remember, you want them to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them as they cook!
How to Make Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chili:
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato, 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
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 30 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying this delicious and hearty meal in about 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and cook until it’s softened, which will take about 4-5 minutes. The onions should be translucent and fragrant at this point.
2. Add Garlic and Turkey:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook it for another minute. You’ll start to smell a wonderful aroma! Then, add the ground turkey and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper!
3. Stir in Spices:
Now it’s time to introduce the spices! Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy). Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to come together.
4. Combine All Ingredients:
It’s time for the main players: add the diced sweet potatoes, canned tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, black beans, and chicken broth into the pot. Make sure to stir everything together well, so all the flavors are mixed nicely!
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring your mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This allows the sweet potatoes to become tender and the chili to thicken up beautifully.
6. Final Taste Adjustments:
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, taste your chili. Add more salt or spices if needed. You really want to make sure it’s bursting with flavor!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Your chili is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Enjoy this delicious and cozy dish!
This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is hearty, full of nutrients, and simply delightful on a cool day. Happy cooking! 🌟
Can I Use Ground Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground beef can be a great substitute if you prefer its richer flavor. Just keep in mind that it may be a bit greasier than turkey, so you might want to drain some fat after browning the meat.
How Can I Make This Chili Vegetarian?
You can easily make this chili vegetarian by omitting the ground turkey and adding more beans or lentils for protein! Additionally, you can include more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for texture and flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, this chili freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or microwave until heated through.
What Can I Serve with Sweet Potato Turkey Chili?
This chili pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or over a bed of rice. You can also serve it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast!
