Savory Southwest Turkey Bean Chili

White Bean Turkey Chili

Description:
This delightful White Bean Turkey Chili recipe comes from a dear friend, promising a culinary journey filled with flavor and warmth. Not excessively spicy, yet richly seasoned, it’s an ideal dish for those who crave a taste of the Southwest without overwhelming heat. Best served in generous bowls, this chili pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips and sharp cheddar cheese, and for those seeking an extra kick, a generous heap of jalapenos.

Recipe Overview:

Ingredients:

• 1 onion
• 1 garlic clove
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/8 – 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) stewed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by sautéing the finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and fragrant bay leaves in a splash of oil over medium heat. Let them cook down for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the onions to turn translucent.

2. Add the ground turkey to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Stir in the aromatic spices: chili powder, ground cumin, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle heat. Continue to cook the turkey until it starts to brown, infusing it with the rich flavors of the spices.

3. Once the turkey is nicely browned, it’s time to introduce the heartiness of the stewed tomatoes and the savory depth of the chicken broth. Pour them into the pot, stirring gently to combine all the ingredients. Adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground pepper to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

4. Let the chili simmer over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together and the flavors to deepen. This gentle simmering stage is crucial for developing a robust and harmonious taste profile.

5. After 10 minutes, it’s time to add the creamy cannellini beans and a dollop of tangy Dijon mustard, which add layers of texture and complexity to the chili. Stir them gently into the bubbling mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout.

6. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let the chili continue to cook for an additional 20 minutes, allowing all the ingredients to mingle and meld into a cohesive, flavorful dish. This slow simmering process allows the flavors to intensify and the chili to reach its full potential.

7. As a final touch, don’t forget to stir in the tomato paste, which adds a concentrated burst of tomato flavor and helps thicken the chili to the perfect consistency.

8. Once the chili is done simmering, remove the bay leaves and discard them. Give the chili a final taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preferences.

9. Ladle the piping hot chili into bowls and serve it up with your favorite accompaniments. Whether you prefer a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, a handful of crunchy tortilla chips, or a fiery kick from sliced jalapenos, this White Bean Turkey Chili is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 267.3
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2.2g
• Cholesterol: 52.2mg
• Sodium: 803.2mg
• Carbohydrates: 23.6g
• Fiber: 6.1g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 22.8g

Recipe Notes:

• Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. If you prefer a spicier chili, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add additional chili powder to amp up the heat.
• This chili can easily be made ahead of time and reheated before serving, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this White Bean Turkey Chili, perfect for cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends and family. With its simple preparation and delicious taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy! 🍲🌶️🥣