Name: Pumpkin Chili
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 120 min
Total time: 150 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 tbsp avocado or olive oil.; 1 large onion.; 2 tomatoes.; 1 oz garlic (4-6 cloves).; 1 red bell pepper.; 12 oz diced pumpkin (half of a small (2.5 lbs) pie pumpkin).; 2 lbs ground beef.; 1 cup beef stock.; 8 oz tomato sauce.; 3 oz tomato paste.; 1 cup pumpkin puree.; 15 oz can kidney beans, drained.; 15 oz can white beans, drained.; 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder, more or less to taste.; 2 tsp paprika.; 2 tsp garlic powder.; 2 1/2 tsp cumin.; 2 tsp white granulated sugar.; 1 tsp dried oregano.; 1-2 tsp coarse sea or kosher salt, to taste.; 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper.

This Pumpkin Chili is a delightful and hearty dish that's perfect for cozy fall evenings. Featuring tender ground beef, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a rich blend of spices, it's both satisfying and flavorful. The addition of pumpkin and beans adds creaminess and depth, making this chili a comforting choice for any dinner table. Simmered to perfection, it's sure to become a family favorite.

This Pumpkin Chili is a hearty and satisfying dish, perfect for cozy fall nights. With its rich blend of spices, tender ground beef, and creamy pumpkin, it's a comforting meal that will warm you up.

INGREDIENTS

2-3 tbsp avocado or olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
1 large onion: Provides a savory base for the chili.
2 tomatoes: Adds freshness and acidity.
1 oz garlic (4-6 cloves): Adds a robust flavor to the dish.
1 red bell pepper: Contributes sweetness and color.
12 oz diced pumpkin (half of a small (2.5 lbs) pie pumpkin): Provides a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.
2 lbs ground beef: The main protein, adding richness and heartiness.
1 cup beef stock: Enhances the depth of flavor.
8 oz tomato sauce: Adds body and tanginess to the chili.
3 oz tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds creaminess and enhances the pumpkin flavor.
15 oz can kidney beans, drained: Provides protein and texture.
15 oz can white beans, drained: Adds additional protein and a different texture.
1 tbsp chipotle chili powder: Adds smoky heat to the dish.
2 tsp paprika: Contributes a mild, sweet flavor.
2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the garlic flavor.
2 1/2 tsp cumin: Adds an earthy, warm flavor.
2 tsp white granulated sugar: Balances the acidity and enhances the overall flavor.
1 tsp dried oregano: Adds a herbaceous note.
1-2 tsp coarse sea or kosher salt, to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.
1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Start by preparing the pumpkin and other vegetables. Cut the pumpkin in half, scoop out the seeds and membrane, and peel the tough skin. Dice the pumpkin, onions, bell pepper, and tomatoes into even pieces.
Step 2:: Preheat a large pot over medium heat and add the avocado or olive oil. Sauté the onions until they become transparent, then add the diced pumpkin and bell pepper. Cook for a few minutes before adding the tomatoes. Continue to cook for another few minutes.
Step 3:: Create space in the pot and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then mix it with the vegetables. Stir and cook until the vegetables are softened. Move the vegetables to the sides of the pot, add ground beef to the center, break it apart, cover, and let it cook for a few minutes.
Step 4:: Stir the beef as it cooks, breaking up any lumps. Once it’s mostly browned, add the seasoning, beef stock, pumpkin puree, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and drained beans. Bring to a low boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover with a lid but leave a crack for steam to escape.
Step 5:: Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Remove the lid halfway through the cooking time and let it cook uncovered for the remaining time to thicken.