Turkey Apple Chili

Turkey Apple Chili is a delightful dish that perfectly blends savory and sweet flavors, creating a comforting meal for any occasion. This recipe stands out with its unique combination of ground turkey, fresh apples, and aromatic spices. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, Turkey Apple Chili is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This chili offers warmth and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for chilly days.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The addition of apples brings a subtle sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it alone or with your favorite sides, such as cornbread or rice.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this chili supports a healthy diet while being delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking your Turkey Apple Chili, gather all the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A must-have for simmering the chili evenly without splattering.
• Spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients and preventing sticking during cooking.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accurate ingredient portions for consistent flavor.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 2 cups sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
• 2 cups sliced sweet potatoes (halved and quartered; about 2 smaller sweet potatoes)
• 2 cups diced apple (from about 2 apples)

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt (divided)
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp rubbed sage (divided)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• A sprinkle nutmeg

For the Protein

• 2 lbs ground lean turkey

For the Sauce

• 3 Tbs tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 3 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
• 1-2 cans kidney beans

How to Make Turkey Apple Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Put 1 Tablespoon of olive oil into a large pot and turn the stove top up to medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the diced apples, sliced sweet potatoes, and sliced carrots to the pan. Top with:
1. 1 teaspoon onion powder
2. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
3. 1 teaspoon salt
4. 1/2 teaspoon pepper
5. 1 teaspoon of rubbed sage
6. 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
7. A sprinkle nutmeg

Mix with a spatula and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey

Add the ground turkey meat to the pot, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.

Step 4: Add Tomato Ingredients

Stir in:
1. 3 Tablespoons of tomato paste
2. 2 teaspoons chili powder
3. 1/2 teaspoon rubbed sage
4. 1 teaspoon salt

Mix until the tomato paste is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add both crushed tomatoes and strained tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer

Reduce heat to low-medium and allow to cook for 20-30 minutes. If using kidney beans, add them at this stage.

Enjoy your delicious Turkey Apple Chili!

How to Serve Turkey Apple Chili

Serving Turkey Apple Chili can be a delightful experience, especially during the cooler months. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with various sides and toppings that enhance its flavors and textures.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices in the chili.
• Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a crunchy texture and a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheese melts beautifully on top, adding richness to each bowl.

Accompaniments

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory chili, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce and add heartiness to your meal.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips add a fun element and are great for scooping up the chili.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds freshness and enhances the overall flavor profile of the chili.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado provides a smooth contrast to the spiciness of the chili.

How to Perfect Turkey Apple Chili

To make your Turkey Apple Chili even better, consider these simple tips. They will help you achieve a rich flavor and perfect texture.

• Bold Spices: Experiment with more spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh apples and high-quality ground turkey for a better taste.
• Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the chili to simmer longer helps meld the flavors beautifully.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors.
• Add More Veggies: Try including bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Apple Chili

Pair your Turkey Apple Chili with these side dishes for a complete meal. Each one complements this flavorful dish while enhancing your dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the chili’s rich sauce.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette contrasts nicely with the hearty chili.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes served alongside allow guests to customize their meal further.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with vegetables offers a healthy grain alternative that pairs well with chili.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate while complementing the main dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and brightness, balancing out the warm spices of the chili.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making turkey apple chili can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Not using enough seasoning: Failing to properly season your chili can lead to bland flavors. Always taste as you go and adjust the spices accordingly.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the carrots and sweet potatoes too long can make them mushy. Sauté them just until they start to soften before adding the turkey.
• Using low-quality ground turkey: Not all ground turkey is created equal. Choose lean, high-quality turkey for better flavor and texture.
• Skipping the resting time: Allowing your chili to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together, enhancing taste.
• Ignoring ingredient prep: Not properly prepping ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Chop your apples, carrots, and sweet potatoes evenly for consistent results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the chili to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Turkey Apple Chili

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space in containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Turkey Apple Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered casserole dish for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Simmer on medium heat in a pot until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making turkey apple chili.

What makes Turkey Apple Chili unique?

Turkey apple chili combines savory and sweet elements, creating a delightful flavor profile that’s perfect for fall.

Can I customize my Turkey Apple Chili?

Absolutely! You can add beans, different vegetables, or even adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I store leftover Turkey Apple Chili?

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Is this Turkey Apple Chili healthy?

Yes! This recipe is packed with lean protein from turkey and healthy carbs from apples and sweet potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Turkey apple chili is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and is sure to please everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Turkey Apple Chili

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Turkey Apple Chili is a deliciously unique dish that merges savory ground turkey with the subtle sweetness of apples, creating a comforting and hearty meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe highlights the warmth and depth of flavors, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers versatility in serving options, ensuring everyone at the table will be satisfied.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 2 cups sliced carrots (about 2 large carrots)
• 2 cups sliced sweet potatoes (halved and quartered; about 2 smaller sweet potatoes)
• 2 cups diced apple (from about 2 apples)
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp salt (divided)
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1 1/2 tsp rubbed sage (divided)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• A sprinkle nutmeg
• 2 lbs ground lean turkey
• 3 Tbs tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 3 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)
• 1–2 cans kidney beans

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Instructions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté sliced carrots, sweet potatoes, and diced apples with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg for about 5 minutes.
3. Add 2 pounds of ground turkey to the pot and cook until browned (5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and 2 teaspoons of chili powder; mix well.
5. Add crushed tomatoes and kidney beans (if using) to the pot; stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-30 minutes.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooked on stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 8g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg