Are you craving a warm, comforting, and flavorful chili but short on time? This Trader Joe's Harvest Chili recipe is your answer! Using readily available ingredients from Trader Joe's, this recipe delivers a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that's both easy and satisfying – the best of both worlds! Get ready to experience the perfect blend of autumnal flavors in this quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup Trader Joe's Harvest Blend Chili Kit (or your favorite chili seasoning blend)
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, chopped cilantro
Instructions:
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Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine ingredients: Add the crushed tomatoes, pumpkin puree, black beans, corn, chili kit, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
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Simmer the chili: Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally.
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Season and serve: Season the chili with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite chili toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, avocado, or chopped cilantro.
Cooking Tips for the Best Harvest Chili:
- Don't overcook the onions: Overcooked onions can become bitter. Aim for soft and translucent onions.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder chili, omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, add more cayenne or a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it ahead: This chili tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It's perfect for meal prepping.
- Thicken the chili: If you prefer a thicker chili, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure your chili seasoning mix and any toppings are also vegan-friendly.
- Meat Lover's Chili: Brown 1 pound of ground beef or turkey before adding the onions to incorporate a hearty meaty flavor. You could also add chorizo for a spicy kick.
- Bean variations: Feel free to experiment with different beans such as kidney beans, pinto beans, or a combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-12g
This Trader Joe's Harvest Chili is a delicious and easy recipe for a healthy and satisfying meal. It's the perfect comfort food for cooler evenings and a great way to use up pantry staples. Enjoy!