Sweet Potato and Ground Turkey Chili
This hearty chili combines velvety sweet potatoes with lean ground turkey, simmered in crushed tomatoes and smoky spices for a comforting, satisfying dish. The slow simmer ensures tender sweet potatoes and well-blended flavors, resulting in a thick, flavorful chili with a hint of sweetness and smoky aroma.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey lean
- 2 large sweet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes 14 oz
- 2 tbsp chili powder adjust for heat
- 1 tsp cumin ground
- 1 tsp smoked paprika for smoky aroma and color
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 small onion diced
- 1 cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
- to taste salt and pepper for seasoning
- optional cilantro chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat your large heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until warm, then add a splash of oil.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes, with a gentle sizzle and onion turning slightly golden.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot, breaking it apart with your spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 8 minutes. You should hear a sear and see the meat turn golden.
- Stir in the diced sweet potatoes, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant and coat the ingredients evenly, with a warm, aromatic scent filling the air.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything into a vibrant, bubbling mixture. Bring it to a gentle simmer, with small bubbles rising steadily.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot partially, and let the chili simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the sweet potatoes will become tender, and the flavors will meld into a rich, thick sauce.
- Uncover and taste the chili, then season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra chili powder or hot sauce.
- Ladle the hot chili into bowls, garnishing with chopped cilantro if desired. Serve with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Notes
For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. To add a smoky flavor, toss in a dash of chipotle powder or smoked chipotle peppers.