Turkey Apple Chili

Turkey Apple Chili is a delightful Fall dish that combines the savory flavors of ground turkey with the sweetness of apples and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for cozy gatherings or a comforting weeknight dinner. With its unique blend of spices, Turkey Apple Chili stands out as a nutritious and delicious option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this chili comes together quickly.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of turkey, apples, and spices creates a rich taste that will leave you wanting more.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it alone, over rice, or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal suitable for any occasion.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with protein from turkey and fiber from beans and veggies, it’s a nourishing choice for your diet.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for quick meals later in the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for cooking all your ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Spatula: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients thoroughly to ensure even cooking.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables easier and safer.
• Cutting board: Provides a clean surface to cut fruits and vegetables while protecting your countertops.

Ingredients

For the Base

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

Seasonings

• 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

Main Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Turkey Apple Chili

Step 1: Heat the Oil

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

Step 2: Cook the 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 rubbed sage
6. 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
7. A sprinkle of nutmeg

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

Step 3: Add Ground Turkey

Add in the ground turkey meat, breaking it up into smaller pieces as you cook it. Continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink, approximately 5–7 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Spices

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 throughout.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes

Next, pour in:
* Crushed tomatoes
* Strained tomatoes

Mix everything well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Simmer Your Chili

Reduce heat to low-medium and allow your chili to cook for about 20–30 minutes. If you are adding kidney beans, include them at this stage before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Turkey Apple Chili!

How to Serve Turkey Apple Chili

Turkey apple chili is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, these suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside warm, crusty bread for dipping. This adds a delightful crunch and soaks up the chili’s rich flavors.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the chili over cooked rice or quinoa. This not only fills you up but also creates a hearty meal with added texture.

Topped with Cheese

• Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top while serving. The melted cheese enhances the chili’s creaminess and richness.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This adds an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.

In a Bread Bowl

• Serve the chili in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation. It’s perfect for parties and casual get-togethers.

Accompanied by Cornbread

• Pair with warm cornbread for a classic combination. The sweetness of cornbread complements the savory spices in the chili beautifully.

How to Perfect Turkey Apple Chili

To make your turkey apple chili even better, consider these handy tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce will elevate the taste of your chili, ensuring vibrant flavors with every bite.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you cook and adjust spices according to your preference for heat or sweetness.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the chili to simmer longer develops deeper flavors. Patience is key!
• Add beans last: If using canned beans, stir them in at the end to maintain their texture and prevent them from getting mushy.
• Store leftovers wisely: Keep any leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for optimal freshness.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different toppings like avocado slices, sour cream alternatives, or hot sauce to customize each bowl.

Best Side Dishes for Turkey Apple Chili

Pairing side dishes with turkey apple chili can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to complement this flavorful dish:

1. Cornbread
   A sweet and moist bread that balances the savory spices of the chili perfectly.
2. Garden Salad
   A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the rich chili.
3. Guacamole
   Creamy guacamole provides a delicious dip option that pairs wonderfully with tortilla chips alongside your chili.
4. Baked Potatoes
   Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with chili for an extra filling meal option that’s sure to satisfy.
5. Rice Pilaf
   Flavorful rice pilaf adds texture and flavor, making it a great base under your turkey apple chili.
6. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add nutritional value and bring out natural sweetness that complements the dish well.
7. Pico de Gallo
   Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness through its crisp veggies and zesty lime juice, enhancing each bite of chili.
8. Stuffed Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with quinoa or rice offer a fun twist, serving as both side dishes and vessels for more flavor!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Turkey Apple Chili, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to add enough spices can result in bland chili. Always measure your seasonings and adjust to your taste.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking the apples and sweet potatoes for too long can make them mushy. Stir occasionally and cook just until tender.
• Not browning the turkey: If you don’t break up and brown the turkey properly, the dish may lack depth of flavor. Ensure the turkey is cooked through and slightly browned.
• Ignoring texture: Adding too many beans or not enough veggies can affect the overall texture. Balance your ingredients for a hearty chili.
• Using canned tomatoes without rinsing: Not rinsing canned tomatoes can lead to excess sodium. Always check the label and rinse if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Turkey Apple Chili

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Turkey Apple Chili

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over low-medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Turkey Apple Chili.

Can I use ground beef instead of turkey?

Yes, ground beef can be used as a substitute if you prefer a richer flavor.

How do I customize my Turkey Apple Chili?

You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or even jalapeños.

What goes well with Turkey Apple Chili?

This chili pairs well with cornbread, rice, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Turkey Apple Chili is perfect for meal prep; it stores well and tastes great reheated.

Can I make Turkey Apple Chili spicy?

Certainly! Increase the amount of chili powder or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Turkey Apple Chili is not only delicious but also versatile. Its blend of flavors makes it perfect for fall evenings or any time you crave comfort food. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

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: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Turkey Apple Chili is a comforting fall dish that marries the savory flavors of ground turkey with the natural sweetness of apples and a medley of vegetables. This delightful chili is perfect for cozy gatherings or a satisfying weeknight dinner. With its rich blend of spices and wholesome ingredients, it’s not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a hearty meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs ground lean turkey
• 2 cups sliced carrots
• 2 cups diced sweet potatoes
• 2 cups diced apples
• 3 cups crushed tomatoes
• 1–2 cans kidney beans
• 1 Tbs olive oil
• 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
• 3 Tbs tomato paste
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 2 cups strained tomatoes (or marinara sauce)

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add sliced carrots, sweet potatoes, and apples along with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, sage, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the ground turkey and cook until browned (5–7 minutes).
4. Mix in tomato paste and chili powder; combine well.
5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir everything together.
6. Lower the heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes; add kidney beans towards the end.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 80mg