Harvest Chili
A soul-warming chili that celebrates fall with rich tomatoes, hearty beans, warming spices, and autumn vegetables like sweet bell peppers and squash. It’s slow-simmered for deep flavor, ideal for cozy nights and crisp afternoons — and can be made vegetarian or meaty, depending on your preference.
Calories 250kcal
Ingredients
- Base Vegetables & Aromatics
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 red bell pepper chopped
- 1 yellow or orange bell pepper chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup diced butternut squash or sweet potato optional, fall-friendly
- 1 medium zucchini chopped
- Beans & Tomatoes
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 –1½ cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- Protein optional
- 1 lb ground turkey or beef omit for vegetarian
- Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp cinnamon warm fall note
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ tsp chipotle powder or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang
Instructions
- Sauté the Base
- Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add bell peppers, zucchini, and squash. Sauté 5–7 minutes until just softened.
- Brown the Protein (if using)
- Add ground meat (if using) to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Spices & Tomato Paste
- Stir in chili powder, paprika, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Add tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to toast the spices.
- Add Beans & Liquid
- Add beans, diced tomatoes (with juice), and broth. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Adjust & Finish
- Taste and adjust seasoning — add salt, pepper, chipotle, or vinegar if needed. For thicker chili, simmer longer uncovered.
Notes
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
250 kcal
Total Fat
9 g
Saturated Fat
1 g
Cholesterol (meat version)
40 mg
Sodium
450 mg
Total Carbs
25 g
Dietary Fiber
9 g
Sugar Alcohols
0 g
Net Carbs
16 g
Protein
15–20 g (with meat) / 10 g (veg only) Net Carbs = Total Carbs – Fiber All values are estimates and vary based on brand and ingredient choice. 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Amount
Calories
250 kcal
Total Fat
9 g
Saturated Fat
1 g
Cholesterol (meat version)
40 mg
Sodium
450 mg
Total Carbs
25 g
Dietary Fiber
9 g
Sugar Alcohols
0 g
Net Carbs
16 g
Protein
15–20 g (with meat) / 10 g (veg only) Net Carbs = Total Carbs – Fiber All values are estimates and vary based on brand and ingredient choice. 🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Top with shredded cheddar, Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, or fresh cilantro
- Serve with Golden Dolci rolls, almond flour cornbread, or over a baked sweet potato
- Pair with a crisp salad for a nourishing full meal
