1 can (15 oz) 100% pure pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the pot with the vegetables. Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook until it is completely browned and no pink remains. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pot to keep the chili light and flavorful.
Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stirring the spices into the meat and vegetables for a minute before adding liquids helps to toast the spices and release their full aroma and flavor.
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), the pumpkin puree, the black beans, and the beef broth. Stir well to ensure the pumpkin puree is fully incorporated into the liquid, creating a smooth, thick base for the chili.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the spices to penetrate the beef and the pumpkin to mellow into the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Give the chili a taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a splash more beef broth. Once heated through and flavorful, your chili is ready to serve.