This hearty Apple Sage Turkey Chili is packed with yummy flavors! Ground turkey, sweet apples, and sage come together to create a warm bowl of goodness, perfect for chilly days.
You might even surprise yourself by loving the apple twist in it! I always make extra to enjoy as leftovers (if there’s any left, that is)! 😄
What I love most is how simple it is to cook. Just toss everything in a pot and let it simmer. It’s a cozy meal that’s healthy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Turkey: Ground turkey is a lean protein that keeps this chili light and healthy. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, you can substitute with ground beef or chicken. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or black beans in place of meat.
Apple: I recommend using Fuji or Granny Smith apples for their balance of sweetness and tartness. If those aren’t available, try Honeycrisp or Braeburn. You could also use canned apples or even pears for a different twist!
Spices: The sage and smoked paprika give this chili its wonderful depth. If you’re out of sage, thyme or Italian seasoning can work, though they will change the flavor. Definitely don’t skip the cumin; it adds a nice warmth!
Beans: Kidney beans lend a hearty feel to the dish. You can easily swap in black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas if you want. Just make sure to rinse them well if using canned beans!
How Do You Perfectly Sauté Onions and Garlic?
Sautéing onions and garlic is key to building flavor in this chili. Start at medium heat to avoid burning, and give them time to soften up. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they are soft and translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute—this helps release its fragrant oils.
- Don’t rush! If they brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent burning.
This step is essential for bringing out the best flavors in your chili! Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Delicious Apple Sage Turkey Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large apple (such as Fuji or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tsp dried sage (or 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh sage leaves
Time Required:
This tasty Apple Sage Turkey Chili takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 40 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 50 minutes to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of chili!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it’s nice and fragrant.
2. Brown the Turkey:
Next, add the ground turkey to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the turkey is browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes.
3. Add in the Apples and Tomatoes:
Once the turkey is cooked, mix in the diced apple and stir well. Then, add the diced tomatoes (along with their juices) and the drained kidney beans to the pot.
4. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Season your mixture with sage, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
5. Simmer the Chili:
Bring the chili to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally, so it doesn’t stick to the bottom, and let those flavors meld!
6. Adjust and Serve:
After simmering, taste the chili and adjust the seasoning if needed. Finally, serve it hot, garnished with fresh sage leaves if you fancy them!
Enjoy your delightful bowl of Apple Sage Turkey Chili! This dish brings cozy vibes with every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or a hearty dinner with family and friends!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the ground turkey with ground beef, chicken, or even pork. For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a mix of your favorite beans instead of meat.
What Can I Substitute for Kidney Beans?
If you don’t have kidney beans, feel free to swap them for black beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse and drain any canned beans you use!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place the chili in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure it’s fully cooled before placing it in the freezer!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to boost the nutrition and flavor. Just chop them small and add them when you add the tomatoes for even cooking.