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Cozy Spiced Pumpkin Black Bean Chili

pumpkin black bean chili - featured image

A quick and easy 30-minute chili that combines velvety pumpkin puree with smoky spices and hearty black beans for a rich, comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights and cozy fall evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Optional toppings: sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, shredded cheese, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Heat the oil: Place your large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Let it warm for about 30 seconds until it shimmers.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until translucent. Add the minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Bloom the spices: Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper directly to the pot. Stir constantly for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the pumpkin and tomatoes: Pour in the pumpkin puree and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir until fully incorporated.
  5. Add the beans and broth: Add the drained and rinsed black beans and the vegetable broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low.
  6. Season and simmer: Stir in the maple syrup or brown sugar, and add a generous pinch of salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Let the chili simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste after 10 minutes and adjust seasoning.
  7. Finish and serve: After 15-20 minutes, the chili should be thick and fragrant. Taste one more time and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite toppings.

Notes

Don’t skip the spice-blooming step; it deepens the flavor. If the chili is too thick, add a splash of broth or water. The flavors improve the next day. For a thicker chili, let it simmer uncovered longer or mash some black beans before adding.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin chili, black bean chili, 30-minute chili, easy chili, fall chili, vegetarian chili, gluten-free chili, dairy-free chili