Hearty Turkey Chili
This turkey chili combines lean ground meat, hearty beans, and smoky spices simmered together to create a thick, flavorful sauce. The dish features tender meat with a rich, smoky aroma, topped with vibrant toppings for a comforting, bowl-worthy meal.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
- Wooden spoon
- can opener
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon oil for sautéing
- 1 large onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 pound ground turkey lean preferred
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney or black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 bell pepper chopped red or green pepper optional, for color and flavor
- 1-2 tablespoons adobo sauce from chipotle peppers, optional for smoky heat
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat oil in your large pot over medium heat until shimmering, then add chopped onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and fragrant, about 8 minutes.
- Push the onions to the side and add the ground turkey to the empty space. Break it apart with your spoon and cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, until it begins to brown lightly.
- Add minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and cook for about 1 minute until the spices become fragrant and the mixture is well coated.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and a splash of water or broth. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to develop flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the rinsed beans and chopped peppers, then add a spoonful of adobo sauce for smoky heat if desired. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Check the chili’s seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if needed. The chili should be thickened slightly, with a rich aroma filling your kitchen and the meat tender in the sauce.
- Turn off the heat and let the chili rest for about 10 minutes. This allows flavors to meld and develop depth. Serve hot, topped with your favorite garnishes like cilantro, lime, shredded cheese, or sour cream.
Notes
For extra richness, add a splash of beef broth or a dash of cocoa powder during simmering. Adjust spice levels to taste, and feel free to customize with your favorite toppings.