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Hearty Turkey and Roasted Sweet Potato Chili

This turkey chili features lean ground turkey simmered with roasted sweet potatoes, vegetables, and aromatic spices. The dish develops a rich, thick consistency with tender meat and caramelized sweet potatoes, resulting in a comforting, aromatic stew with a vibrant, colorful appearance.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds sweet potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for roasting
  • 1 pound ground turkey lean
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans drained and rinsed
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 pinch red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil, then spread evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, until tender and caramelized around the edges.
  2. While the sweet potatoes roast, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Increase the heat slightly and add the ground turkey to the pot. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7 minutes.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
  6. Pour in the broth and add the rinsed kidney beans. Bring the chili to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chili to thicken.
  7. Once the sweet potatoes are done roasting, carefully add them to the chili, gently folding them in so they retain some of their shape but fully heat through.
  8. Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili flakes as desired. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
  9. Serve the chili hot in bowls, garnished with your favorite toppings if desired. Enjoy the hearty, comforting mixture with tender turkey and caramelized sweet potatoes.

Notes

For extra flavor, top with shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime before serving.