Turkey Sweet Potato Chili Recipe
Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is a hearty and delicious dish that warms you up from the inside out. This chili combines ground turkey with sweet potatoes and spices to create a meal you can enjoy any time of the year. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need some comfort food. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it is healthy and full of protein, making it a great option for those watching their diet. The combination of sweet potatoes and corn adds sweetness and fiber, making it a filling meal. Second, it is simple to prepare and can be made in one pot, which saves on cleanup. Lastly, this chili is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to suit your taste.
How to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Making Turkey Sweet Potato Chili is easy and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 sweet onion, diced
- 5-7 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 28 oz petite diced tomatoes (canned)
- 16 oz tomato sauce (canned)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 large sweet potato, 1-inch cubes (~12 oz)
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup frozen corn
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/3 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 avocadoes, sliced
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced sweet onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it up to avoid clumps. Season with a pinch or two of salt and black pepper. Cook until the turkey is no longer pink and almost fully cooked through.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, cubed sweet potatoes, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to medium and let the chili simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Stir in the frozen corn and increase the heat to medium-high. Cook for a few more minutes until the chili returns to a boil. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat.
- Ladle the chili into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced avocado as desired. Enjoy warm!
How to Serve Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
Serve your Turkey Sweet Potato Chili warm in bowls. Top each serving with fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, and slices of avocado. You can enjoy it with tortilla chips or some crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
How to Store Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
To store leftover Turkey Sweet Potato Chili, let it cool down completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Turkey Sweet Potato Chili
- Adjust the Spices: Feel free to customize the spice levels. Add more chili powder for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Add More Veggies: You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Use Ground Beef: If you prefer, you can substitute ground turkey with ground beef or chicken.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground turkey and replace it with canned beans or lentils. You can use black beans or kidney beans for added protein.
FAQs
1. Can I make this chili ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Turkey Sweet Potato Chili ahead of time. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
2. Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh sweet potatoes work great in this recipe. Just peel and cube them, and they will cook perfectly in the chili.
3. How can I make this chili spicier?
To make the chili spicier, you can add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or increase the amount of chili powder used in the recipe. Adjust according to your heat preference.
