Smoky Pumpkin Black Bean Chili (Print)

Hearty chili with black beans, pumpkin, chipotle, and spices. Campfire depth and comforting warmth in each bite.

# Components:

→ Chili Base

01 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 tablespoons chili powder
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cumin
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1-2 teaspoons minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
09 - 2 (15-ounce) cans black beans, rinsed and drained
10 - 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
11 - 1 cup pumpkin puree
12 - 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

→ For Serving

13 - Lime wedges
14 - Sour cream or Greek yogurt
15 - Fresh cilantro, chopped

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
02 - Add the minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, black beans, crushed tomatoes, pumpkin puree, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
03 - Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chili has thickened to your desired consistency. For a thicker chili, remove the lid during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
04 - Taste the chili and season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and additional chipotle peppers if desired for more heat.
05 - Ladle the chili into bowls and serve hot, garnished with lime wedges, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and chopped fresh cilantro.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses mostly pantry ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Vegetarian friendly but satisfying enough for meat lovers
  • Perfect make ahead meal that tastes even better the next day
02 -
  • Perfect balance of smoke, spice, and sweetness
  • Excellent source of plant protein and fiber
  • Naturally gluten free and easily made vegan by using vegetable broth and plant based toppings
  • Budget friendly meal that feeds a crowd

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