Introduction
It’s officially fall, and while pumpkin flavors are everywhere, I wanted to make a subtle, savory recipe that’s still bursting with the flavors of the season. Enter this Smoky Vegan Pumpkin Chili! It’s not overpowering with pumpkin spice, but instead, pumpkin is woven into the chili with savory spices like chili powder, cumin, and smoked chipotle powder. It’s hearty, filling, and the perfect fall meal that’s vegan-friendly and full of hidden nutrients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Smoky Vegan Pumpkin Chili is cozy comfort food at its finest. It’s rich in flavor thanks to a mix of savory ingredients and smoky spices. The pumpkin adds a creamy texture while also sneaking in nutrients like beta-carotene and fiber. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping or serving to a crowd, and the toppings bring it to the next level!
Recipe Origins
Chili is a traditional comfort food, but this version embraces the flavors of fall with pumpkin and a smoky kick. The unique combination of smoked chipotle powder, cumin, and cinnamon makes this chili stand out. It’s a great way to introduce more pumpkin into your meals without going overboard on sweetness, making it an ideal vegan twist on a classic.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 14g
Sodium: 650mg
Fiber: 10g
Sugar: 9g
Quick Facts
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add extra broth if necessary.
Serving Suggestions
This chili is delicious with toppings like sliced avocado, tortilla strips, or shredded vegan cheese. Pair it with cornbread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Common Mistakes
- Mistake 1: Not sautéing the spices. Blooming the spices in oil is crucial for maximizing their flavor.
- Mistake 2: Not adjusting the spice level. If you prefer less heat, start with a smaller amount of chipotle powder and add more as needed.
- Mistake 3: Overcooking the pumpkin. Make sure to simmer the chili only long enough for the flavors to combine, or the pumpkin can lose its texture.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan: This recipe is already vegan.
- Spicy: For more heat, add extra chipotle powder, cayenne pepper, or fresh jalapeños.
- Beans-Free: Omit the beans and add more vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, for a lighter version.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes! Just make sure to cook it down until soft before adding it to the chili.
- Can I substitute the beans? Yes, you can use any beans you prefer, such as kidney beans or black-eyed peas.
- How do I adjust the consistency? If the chili is too thick, add extra vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked chipotle powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes with chiles
- 1 can pumpkin puree
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Squeeze of lime juice
- 1 container Plant Perks Smoked Gouda Cheeze Spread, for serving
- Sliced green onion and cilantro, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over low heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft, about 3 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in the chili powder, smoked chipotle powder, cumin, and cinnamon, letting the spices bloom in the pot for about 1 minute.
Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, pumpkin, black beans, pinto beans, and tomato paste. Stir in the salt.
Step 4: Increase the heat to medium and bring the chili to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
Step 5: Remove the chili from heat and stir in a squeeze of lime juice.
Step 6: Ladle the chili into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of Plant Perks Smoked Gouda Cheeze Spread. Garnish with sliced green onions and cilantro.
