This Sweet Potato Turkey Chili is a warm and hearty dish that combines flavorful ground turkey with sweet potatoes and beans. It’s packed with spices that give it a nice kick!
It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love how the sweet potatoes add a touch of sweetness that balances the heat. Plus, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies for dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: This lean meat is a healthy choice for chili. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute it with ground beef or chicken. For a vegetarian option, try lentils or canned chickpeas instead.
Sweet Potato: The star of this chili! If sweet potatoes aren’t available, you can use regular potatoes or butternut squash for a similar texture. If you’re short on time, canned sweet potatoes can work too!
Black Beans: These add protein and a creamy texture. You can replace them with kidney beans or pinto beans if you prefer, or leave them out for a lighter dish.
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika bring warmth and depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, although you may miss that smoky touch. Also, adjust cayenne based on your heat preference.
How Do I Ensure My Chili Has the Right Consistency?
Getting the right consistency can be tricky. You want it thick and hearty but still spoonable. Here are a few steps to achieve this:
- Cook the chili uncovered for part of the time to allow excess liquid to evaporate. This helps thicken it up.
- If you find it too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.
Don’t hesitate to adjust as it simmers. You can add a tablespoon of tomato paste if you need more body, or more broth for a soupier consistency.
Sweet Potato Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup 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 black pepper, to taste
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
- Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Sweet Potato Turkey Chili takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying this cozy meal in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes softened, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This will create a fragrant base for your chili!
2. Add Garlic and Turkey:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and give it a quick cook for about 1 minute until you can really smell it. Then add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, around 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season with a little salt and pepper!
3. Mix in the Veggies and Spices:
Now it’s time to stir in the diced sweet potato along with the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and tomato paste. Let these cook together for 2-3 minutes to really let those spices shine!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour in the diced tomatoes, black beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything well to combine. This is where the magic happens as all the wonderful flavors meld together.
5. Simmer Until Done:
Bring your chili to a nice boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 25-30 minutes. You want the sweet potatoes to become tender and the chili to thicken up nicely.
6. Taste and Serve:
Once everything is cooked and delicious, take a moment to taste the chili. You can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili powder if needed. When you’re ready, serve it hot and top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, sliced jalapeño, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Enjoy your comforting, hearty Sweet Potato Turkey Chili! It’s perfect for cozy nights and can even be made ahead of time for a meal prep treat!
Can I Use Ground Chicken or Beef Instead of Turkey?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef can be used in place of turkey for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust cooking times, as ground beef may take a little longer to brown.
What Can I Substitute for Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t have sweet potatoes on hand, you can substitute them with regular potatoes, butternut squash, or even carrots. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! For a vegetarian version, replace the ground turkey with lentils, black beans, or a mix of your favorite legumes. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
