Are you ready to embrace the cozy warmth of autumn? Nothing says fall quite like the comforting flavors of pumpkin. And with Libby's pure pumpkin, creating delicious and easy recipes is a breeze. This isn't your grandma's pumpkin pie (though we'll touch on that too!), we're exploring a world of versatile pumpkin recipes – from healthy meals to quick dinner ideas – perfect for everyone, from beginner cooks to seasoned chefs. Get ready to discover your new favorite homemade cooking obsession!
Creamy Pumpkin Chili: A Quick Dinner Idea
This recipe is a fantastic example of how versatile pumpkin can be. It offers a unique twist on a classic chili, delivering a hearty and healthy meal ready in under an hour. It's perfect for a chilly evening and is easily adaptable to your spice preferences.
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground turkey or beef
- 1 (15-ounce) can Libby's pure pumpkin
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the pumpkin, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, vegetable broth, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for at least 30 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pumpkin Chili:
- For a thicker chili, simmer uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrients.
- If you prefer a spicier chili, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: Approximately 25g
- Fat: Approximately 12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25g
Variations:
- Vegetarian Chili: Replace ground meat with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian sausage.
- Spicy Pumpkin Chili: Add a chopped jalapeño pepper along with the onion and garlic.
- Sweet Pumpkin Chili: Stir in a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup at the end of cooking.
This creamy pumpkin chili is a delicious and healthy meal, perfect for a busy weeknight. It showcases the versatility of Libby's pure pumpkin, proving that pumpkin isn't just for pies! Enjoy this easy recipe and explore the many other delicious dishes you can create with this versatile ingredient. From quick dinner ideas to impressive holiday meals, the possibilities are endless. Happy cooking!