Hot or Not Pumpkin Turkey Chili

By Susan Arruda

You can sub out or add the chilli flakes, depending on your preference of the spice factor!

YIELD: 6

INGREDIENTS

2 lbs ground turkey (or extra lean ground beef)

1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil

1 garlic clove minced

1 small onion, chopped (approx. 1 cup) or 2-3 green onions finely chopped

1 chopped red, orange or yellow pepper, medium size

½ zucchini, chopped (approx. 1/3-1/2 cup)

1 cup red kidney beans

1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces / 798 ml)

1 can unsweetened pumpkin (14.5 oz / 798 ml)

1 ½ tbsp. chili powder

½-1 tsp. chili flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

Optional: top with shredded cheddar cheese before serving

PREPARATION

Cook ground turkey and set aside.  If using ground beef, rinse with hot water after cooking to remove excess fat.

Heat olive oil in pan and add garlic clove, onion and chopped vegetables.

Return beef to medium heat pan with cooked vegetables and add diced tomatoes and pumpkin.  Stir in the spices and salt and pepper to taste.

Lower heat and simmer for 15-20 mins.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese, if desired and serve.