Garden-to-Table Blue Ribbon Chili
From the Garden
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 bell pepper, diced
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1 poblano pepper, diced
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
From the Store/Pantry
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground turkey or extra beans for vegetarians (or your preferred protein)
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3–4 cups beans (any mix of black, kidney, pinto, or fresh beans from the garden), drained and rinsed if canned
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1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes or about 6–8 fresh garden tomatoes, peeled and chopped
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (optional if using fresh)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp ketchup (for a touch of sweetness)
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2 tsp mild chili powder
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½ tsp ground coriander
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Cumin, to taste
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½ tsp salt (adjust as needed)
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ to 1 cup water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth (as needed for consistency)
Optional Toppings
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Shredded medium cheddar cheese
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Sour cream
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Tortilla chips
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and poblano. Cook until softened and lightly browned, about 6–8 minutes.
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Stir in garlic and cook just 1 minute, until fragrant (adding it later keeps it from burning).
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If using turkey, add it now and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon.
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Stir in chili powder, coriander, cumin (to taste), salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
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Add tomato paste, ketchup, tomatoes, beans, and ½ cup liquid. Stir well to combine.
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Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, add more liquid a little at a time.
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Taste and adjust seasoning.
To Serve
Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar, sour cream, and tortilla chips.
Note: This recipe is mild, but if you’d like more heat, swap the poblano for a jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne along with the spices.