Pumpkin Chili: A Cozy, Fall Twist on a Classic

As the crisp fall air begins to settle in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty meal to keep you cozy. This Pumpkin Chili offers a delightful seasonal twist on the classic dish by incorporating pumpkin puree into the mix. It’s rich, flavorful, and full of autumn goodness—perfect for chilly nights spent around a campfire, in your RV, or at home on the homestead. With its easy preparation, minimal ingredients, and ability to be cooked in large batches, this dish is perfect for both homesteaders and RVers alike.

Why You'll Love Pumpkin Chili:

• Fall Flavor: The addition of pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the chili, making it perfect for the season.

• Versatile: You can use ground beef, turkey, or make it vegetarian by adding extra beans or vegetables.

• Perfect for Batch Cooking: This recipe makes a large batch, ideal for storing leftovers in the fridge or freezer, perfect for easy meals throughout the week.

• Simple Ingredients: Many of the ingredients are pantry staples or can be harvested fresh from your fall garden.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (or a plant-based alternative)

• 1 large onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable or beef broth

• 2 tablespoons chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for a fall flavor boost)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or green onions

Instructions:

1. Cook the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté the Veggies

Add the diced onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.

3. Add the Pumpkin and Spices

Stir in the pumpkin puree, diced tomatoes, and all of the spices (chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon). Mix everything together to ensure the flavors are well combined.

4. Add Beans and Broth

Next, add the drained black beans, kidney beans, and broth to the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the mixture is fully combined.

5. Simmer

Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This will allow all the flavors to blend beautifully.

6. Season and Serve

After 30 minutes, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. If you like your chili thicker, let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes without a lid. Once it’s done, serve hot with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped cilantro, or green onions.

Tips for Homesteaders and RVers:

• Make it Ahead: Pumpkin chili can be made ahead of time and stored in airtight containers. It reheats beautifully, making it a great option for those busy days when you want a comforting meal without the hassle.

• Storage: This chili can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months, making it ideal for batch cooking and meal prep.

• Campfire Cooking: If you’re cooking outdoors or in an RV, this recipe works wonderfully over a campfire in a cast-iron Dutch oven. Just be sure to keep the chili stirred and watch the heat to prevent burning.

Variations:

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the meat and add more beans or vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn.

• Spicy: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper if you prefer a little extra heat in your chili.

• Extra Hearty: For added texture, try tossing in a handful of quinoa or bulgur wheat during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Conclusion:

This Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate fall comfort food, perfect for both cozy nights at home or camping adventures on the road. With its blend of warming spices, hearty beans, and creamy pumpkin, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. Whether you're a homesteader looking to use up fall produce or an RVer seeking an easy, delicious meal, this chili offers the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and warmth.

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