Turkey doesn’t have to play second fiddle to beef when it comes to chili. This hearty turkey chili is brimming with rich spices and a generous serving of beans, ensuring a satisfying meal. The secret to a delectable turkey chili lies in the gradual layering of flavors. Gradually introduce the spices and allow the chili to simmer unhurriedly. Regular tasting and seasoning adjustments are essential. As the chili simmers, its consistency will thicken, intensifying the flavors. If it becomes overly thick, a splash of water (around 1/2 cup) can be added, and it can be covered to continue simmering.
Serving Suggestions for Savory Turkey Chili:
Chili toppings truly elevate the dish. Consider garnishing with abundant shredded cheddar and crumbled saltines. Fritos or tortilla chips are also excellent accompaniments. For a creamy touch and to moderate the spiciness, add avocado and sour cream. For a unique twist, serve the chili atop spaghetti, inspired by Cincinnati’s style.
Storage Tips:
This turkey chili is perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying later. If not serving a large group, store the chili in a sealed container and refrigerate for up to a week. Often, the flavors meld even better after a day or two. For longer storage, freeze the chili in a suitable container for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Ingredients for Turkey Chili:
– 1 tbsp. pure olive oil
– 1 robust red onion, finely diced
– 1 bell pepper, deseeded and finely diced
– 1 jalapeño, deseeded and finely diced
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 tbsp. tomato concentrate
– 1 1/2 lb. minced turkey
– 1 tbsp. chili seasoning
– 1 tbsp. coarse salt
– 2 tsp. cumin powder
– 1 1/2 tsp. coriander powder
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– 1 tsp. powdered mustard
– 1/2 tsp. red chili powder
– Freshly milled black pepper
– 1 can (15-oz.) charred tomatoes
– 1 can (15-oz.) black beans, drained
– 1 can (15-oz.) red kidney beans, drained
– 2 tsp. chicken or beef stock concentrate
Garnishes: Shredded cheddar, sour cream, fresh cilantro, saltines or Fritos
Instructions to prepare Turkey Chili:
1. In a spacious pot on medium flame, warm the oil. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until tender, roughly 7 minutes. Introduce the jalapeño and garlic, cooking until aromatic.
2. Mix in the tomato concentrate until the veggies are well-coated and it deepens in color.
3. Incorporate the turkey, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Season with chili powder, salt, cumin, coriander, oregano, mustard, red chili, and black pepper. Allow it to simmer until reduced by half.
4. Add the tomatoes, both beans, and stock concentrate. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer until the chili thickens, around 45 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve the chili in bowls, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?
– Yes, ground chicken can be a suitable substitute for turkey. However, the flavor profile might be slightly different, so adjust seasonings as needed.
2. Is it possible to make this chili vegetarian?
– Absolutely! You can omit the turkey and add more beans or introduce other plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.
3. How can I make the chili spicier?
– If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add more jalapeños, increase the amount of red chili powder, or even add a dash of hot sauce.
4. What if I don’t have light beer on hand?
– The beer can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth. The beer adds a unique depth of flavor, but broth will still give a rich taste.
5. Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
– Yes, but remember to soak and cook them beforehand. Canned beans are pre-cooked, so using dried beans without pre-cooking will result in a hard texture.
6. How can I make the chili thicker?
– If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can simmer the chili for a longer time, allowing more liquid to evaporate. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans to give a creamier texture.
7. Can I use this recipe in a slow cooker?
– Definitely! After sautéing the vegetables and browning the turkey, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
8. What other toppings can I use for this turkey chili?
– The possibilities are endless! Some other popular toppings include diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeño slices, lime wedges, and even a sprinkle of corn kernels for added sweetness.
I hope these FAQs help enhance your chili-making experience!
Turkey Chili
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp. pure olive oil
- 1 robust red onion finely diced
- 1 bell pepper deseeded and finely diced
- 1 jalapeño deseeded and finely diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp. tomato concentrate
- 1 1/2 lb. minced turkey
- 1 tbsp. chili seasoning
- 1 tbsp. coarse salt
- 2 tsp. cumin powder
- 1 1/2 tsp. coriander powder
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. powdered mustard
- 1/2 tsp. red chili powder
- Freshly milled black pepper
- 1 can 15-oz. charred tomatoes
- 1 can 15-oz. black beans, drained
- 1 can 15-oz. red kidney beans, drained
- 2 tsp. chicken or beef stock concentrate
Garnishes:
- Shredded cheddar sour cream, fresh cilantro, saltines or Fritos
Instructions
- In a spacious pot on medium flame, warm the oil. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until tender, roughly 7 minutes. Introduce the jalapeño and garlic, cooking until aromatic.
- Mix in the tomato concentrate until the veggies are well-coated and it deepens in color.
- Incorporate the turkey, breaking it apart, and cook until browned. Season with chili powder, salt, cumin, coriander, oregano, mustard, red chili, and black pepper. Allow it to simmer until reduced by half.
- Add the tomatoes, both beans, and stock concentrate. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer until the chili thickens, around 45 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve the chili in bowls, garnished with your choice of toppings.
