Description
Vegetarian Pumpkin Chili
This hearty vegetarian pumpkin chili is the perfect comfort meal for cold weather. Made with a blend of easy canned ingredients and a few fresh additions, it’s a healthy and flavorful dish that meat lovers and vegetarians alike will enjoy. Plus, it’s also vegan and gluten-free! The warm spices, sweet pumpkin, and rich broth create a satisfying flavor profile that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
2 Tbsp olive oil
1 cup chopped yellow onion
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, minced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cinnamon
2 1/2 tsp cumin
2 tsp chili powder
1 tsp onion powder
2 cups vegetable broth
3 cans diced tomatoes
1 can pinto beans
1 can kidney beans
1 can pumpkin puree
1 sweet potato, diced
Directions:
1. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and jalapeño in olive oil over medium heat for 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and spices, cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in remaining ingredients, reduce heat, and cook for 30 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Kcal: 150 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect chili every time.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced bell peppers, and minced jalapeño. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic, salt, pepper, cinnamon, cumin, chili powder, and onion powder. Stir constantly for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), drained and rinsed pinto and kidney beans, pumpkin puree, and diced sweet potato. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 30 minutes, check if the sweet potato is tender. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes if needed. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile chili pairs wonderfully with various toppings and sides. For a classic touch, top with sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, a dollop of vegan sour cream, or shredded cheese. Serve alongside warm cornbread, tortilla chips for dipping, or a simple side salad. For a heartier meal, spoon it over a bed of cooked rice or quinoa.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this chili by sautéing onions and peppers, blooming spices with garlic, then simmering everything with broth, tomatoes, beans, pumpkin, and sweet potato for 30 minutes. The result is a thick, flavorful, and nutritious one-pot meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, but ensure it’s cooked and pureed. Canned is recommended for consistency and convenience.
How can I make this chili spicier? Add an extra jalapeño (with seeds), a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a diced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely. This chili freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely and store in airtight containers.
What can I substitute for sweet potato? Butternut squash or carrots are excellent alternatives that offer similar sweetness and texture.
Is the pumpkin taste very strong? No. The pumpkin primarily adds richness, body, and a subtle sweetness that blends seamlessly with the tomatoes and spices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Blooming the Spices: Skipping the step of cooking the spices with the garlic for a minute can result in a raw, dusty flavor.
- Overcooking the Garlic: Adding garlic with the initial vegetables can cause it to burn and turn bitter. Add it with the spices.
- Forgetting to Drain and Rinse Beans: Always rinse canned beans to remove excess sodium and the starchy liquid that can muddy the chili’s texture.
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Ensure you use plain pumpkin puree, not the sweetened pie filling, which contains sugar and spices.
Conclusion
This vegetarian pumpkin chili is a testament to how hearty and satisfying meatless meals can be. It’s incredibly simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and delivers a complex flavor profile that comforts and nourishes. Perfect for meal prep, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.