Cozy Chickpea Chilli

Oh Autumn, the most beautiful season in my opinion. I have really enjoyed this summer, but if you know me you know I am more of a fall/winter/spring kind of gal. Part of this is due to my fair complexion and strawberry hair, but mostly because I love the cold and I can’t get enough of cozy, warming recipes like this one.

Something about warm, hearty dishes are just good for the soul. You can find me in my kitchen this fall making all the soups, stews, home made applesauce, and indulging in all the fall activities. I find so much joy in celebrating and appreciating the small things in life, especially with all that we have been through in the past couple years. I hope this recipe can serve as valuable nourishment, not just for your body but for your soul and that you enjoy this staple cold-weather recipe as much as I do!

Ingredients:

  • 2 white or yellow onions, chopped

  • Ground beef, turkey, or chicken

  • 1 jalapeno pepper, diced

  • 3 cloves fresh, crushed garlic

  • 2 bell peppers, chopped

  • 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced

  • 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cut into 1” cubes

  • 1 can of diced tomatoes

  • 1 can of chickpeas

  • 1 can of black beans

  • 1 680ml jar of strained tomatoes or tomato sauce (unsweetened)

  • 2 tbsp. chilli powder

  • 1 tbsp. cumin

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

  • Basmati rice

  • Fresh avocado

  • 100% corn tortilla chips, crumbled

Directions:

  1. Prepare all your veggies: onions, peppers, sweet potato, and mushrooms, cutting into uniform sizes (this is important for everything to be cooked properly).

  2. Crush your garlic cloves and set aside.

  3. Bring a large sauce pan to medium heat and lightly sauté your ground meat until well-cooked (note: if you wish to make this chilli vegan, simple omit the meat and skip this step)

  4. Prepare your slow cooker or crockpot and add your protein, beans, canned goods, herbs, and all veggies into the pot. Stir well, set to low heat and let the chilli cook for about 6-7 hours. (I will usually prep everything in the morning and when I come home at the end of the day it is ready to enjoy!)

  5. Once your chilli is finished, cook some rice and prepare your toppings if desired.

  6. Build your chilli bowl, add some salt and pepper and enjoy!

Jess