White Bean Pumpkin Chili: Bold & Flavorful Comfort Food

There’s something magical about a simmering pot of White Bean Pumpkin Chili on a chilly evening. The aroma fills the kitchen, wrapping you in warmth and comfort, much like a cozy blanket on a winter day. This is the kind of recipe that turns a regular weekday dinner into a memorable occasion.

In my kitchen, I find joy in crafting dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious. White Bean Pumpkin Chili holds a special place in my heart, bringing together the earthy flavors of smoked paprika and the creamy texture of peanut butter. Each spoonful feels like a hug in a bowl, and it’s a dish I love to share with family and friends.

Cooking shouldn’t be a chore but a delightful adventure. When I first experimented with White Bean Pumpkin Chili, it was a happy accident that led to an unexpected hit. The combination of ingredients seemed unusual at first, but they work together harmoniously, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.

For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, this chili offers a perfect canvas. The subtle heat from red chili paste and the sweetness of pumpkin purée make it an intriguing dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s the kind of meal that makes you look forward to dinner every day.

White Bean Pumpkin Chili

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• Author: Billie
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Pressure Cooker
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Discover a hearty and flavorful recipe for White Bean Pumpkin Chili that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting meal. Perfect for cozy nights in!

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Ingredients

• – 2 tablespoons (30 ml) Avocado oil
• – 1 onion, finely chopped
• – 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• – 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• – 3 small carrots, finely chopped
• – 1 1/2 tablespoons (22.5 ml) smoked paprika
• – 1/2 tablespoon (7.5 ml) red chili paste, or 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of chili powder
• – 1 1/2 pounds (680 g) ground beef, (We like to use lean ground beef)
• – 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh thyme, or 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dried
• – 15 oz (425 g) unsweetened pumpkin purée, one can
• – 1/4 cup (60 ml) peanut butter
• – 30 oz (850 g) cannellini beans, two cans, drained
• – 2 1/2 cups (600 ml) low-sodium vegetable broth
• – salt and pepper, to taste
• – Optional toppings: fresh thyme, chopped avocado, green onions, shredded cheese
• – optional seasoning: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of (cumin powder, onion powder, and garlic powder)

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Instructions

1. Finely mince the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic cloves.
2. Warm oil in a Dutch oven on medium-high. Add onion and cook until it becomes clear. Mix in the garlic and continue cooking for 2 more minutes until aromatic.
3. Then, incorporate the carrots and celery, stirring intermittently until they begin to soften.
4. Introduce the minced meat, smoked paprika, red chili paste, black pepper, and salt. Cook until the meat loses its pink color, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Blend in the fresh thyme, pumpkin purée, peanut butter, beans, and vegetable broth. Stir thoroughly.
6. Cover and lower the heat. Let it simmer for around 30 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to preference.
7. Move the chili to a serving dish. Add your favorite toppings before serving immediately.
8. Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in onion and garlic and cook until the garlic is aromatic.
9. Add the chopped vegetables, meat, and seasonings, cooking until the vegetables are tender and the meat is browned.
10. Shift the browned meat mixture into the slow cooker. Mix in the beans and fresh thyme. Pour in the pumpkin purée, peanut butter, and broth. Stir to combine.
11. Secure the lid and cook on LOW for 8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours.
12. Garnish with preferred toppings and serve without delay.
13. Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Warm oil and cook onion and garlic until they turn lightly golden.
14. Add in the chopped vegetables, meat, and seasonings, mixing well and breaking the meat into small bits with a wooden spoon until browned, around 7-8 minutes.
15. Introduce the rest of the ingredients. Secure the lid and pressure cook for 10 minutes.
16. Once cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally, approximately 15 minutes.
17. Unlock the lid and transfer the chili to a large serving dish. Garnish with desired toppings and serve hot.

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Notes

• Consider combining fresh thyme and dried thyme for a more robust flavor profile in the chili.
• Enhance the depth of the dish by adding a seasoning mix of cumin powder, onion powder, and garlic powder.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste at the end of cooking to fully bring out the flavors in the chili.

Crafting Your White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Fundamentals

White Bean Pumpkin Chili is a delightful twist on traditional chili. Its appeal lies in the blend of hearty ingredients like lean ground beef, cannellini beans, and pumpkin purée. This dish is a perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a wholesome meal for any occasion.

The secret to its unique taste is the combination of spices and peanut butter. Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth, while peanut butter introduces a creamy richness. Together, they create a comforting dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

Preparation/Setup

To start, finely chop your vegetables: onions, celery, carrots, and garlic. This step ensures even cooking and a harmonious blend of flavors. Heat avocado oil in a Dutch oven, allowing the onions to become translucent before adding garlic to release its aroma.

Next, incorporate the chopped carrots and celery, stirring until they soften. Introduce the ground beef, smoked paprika, and chili paste, cooking until the meat is browned. This initial preparation sets the foundation for the rich, flavorful chili that follows.

Mastering the Art of White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Technique

The key to a perfect White Bean Pumpkin Chili is the layering of flavors. After browning the meat, blend in fresh thyme, pumpkin purée, peanut butter, and beans. The pumpkin purée adds a velvety texture, while the peanut butter enriches the dish with a nutty undertone.

Let the chili simmer gently, allowing the flavors to meld together. The low and slow cooking process is crucial in developing the depth of flavor, transforming simple ingredients into a complex and satisfying meal.

Tips/Tricks

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cumin, onion, and garlic powders. These spices enhance the chili’s complexity and provide a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

If you’re a fan of creative comfort food, try serving your chili with a side of Chili Verde Burritos with Hatch Green Chile Sauce or indulge in a Deep-Fried Bacon Chili Cheese Milkshake for a fun twist.

Perfecting Your White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect balance in your White Bean Pumpkin Chili involves patience and attention to detail. Allow the chili to simmer for at least 30 minutes, giving the flavors time to meld and intensify. This step is crucial for achieving a rich and satisfying taste.

For a thicker consistency, let the chili simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes. This allows excess liquid to evaporate, resulting in a heartier dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your chili turns out too spicy, incorporate a spoonful of yogurt or sour cream to balance the heat. For those who prefer a vegetarian version, omit the beef and add extra beans or vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.

For more inspiration on creating unique chili dishes, explore Mediterranean Style White Chicken Chili or the innovative Sous Vide Ground Beef Chili.

Serving and Enjoying Your White Bean Pumpkin Chili

Serving/Presentation

Presentation adds to the enjoyment of White Bean Pumpkin Chili. Serve it in a rustic bowl, topped with fresh thyme, chopped avocado, or shredded cheese. These toppings add color and a burst of freshness, enhancing both the visual appeal and flavor.

Pair your chili with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting dinner, try it alongside a Hamburger Green Bean Casserole, complementing the chili’s rich flavors beautifully.

Pairings/Storage

Leftover White Bean Pumpkin Chili stores beautifully. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

For a fun twist, use the chili as a filling for Papadzules Pumpkinseed Eggs or serve it as part of a Sopa de Fideo with Ground Beef and Beans.

Conclusion

White Bean Pumpkin Chili is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout recipe, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. With its versatile nature and easy preparation, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

The combination of smoked paprika, pumpkin purée, and peanut butter creates a rich and satisfying chili that’s both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re serving it to family or friends, this chili is sure to impress and become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Explore the world of creative chili recipes, and let White Bean Pumpkin Chili be your gateway to a new culinary adventure. Its ability to bring people together around a table makes it more than just a meal—it’s an experience to be shared and savored.

FAQs – White Bean Pumpkin Chili